Prison Diversion Essay

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Prison Diversion Introduction This is a comprehensive paper that provides a description of the selected human service policy topic, Prison Diversion, for HUM5300 final paper. Included is a definition of prison diversion, from a cross-disciplinary perspective and some of the problem areas. There are many court-diversion programs provided for non-violent and low-risk offenders. This paper will illustrate the benefits of a diversion program for substance abusers, but primarily the mentally ill and the effectiveness. In addition, a summary of the state and federal regulations of the policy; as well as how these laws and regulations impact prison diversion. Also addressed are future policies/regulations which may be needed to improve the current prison diversion policy. Definition of Prison Diversion A Prison Diversion Program provides alternatives for individuals facing jail or prison time. The alternatives can occur at the time of sentencing or during incarceration, in order to alleviate prison time or preventing an individual from returning to prison. An example of a Diversion Program is treatment program; such as substance abuse programs, which permits an individual to complete a substance abuse program instead of serving jail time. Another form of diversion is mental health treatment, which an individual receives mental health treatment to manage their illness. Providing an individual with the options of treatment is with hopes their specific needs are met. An intervention of treatment will most likely decrease the chances of the individual committing a new offense, if they are successful in their program. It also assures that they receive treatment, which otherwise may not be an option for them and it contributes to decreasing the prison systems population. In addition to the various treatment programs individuals are placed on supervised probation or

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