Evansville, Indiana (WEHT) – For many people involved in the criminal justice system, untreated mental health problems can lead to ongoing arrest and imprisonment. The Vanderborough County Mental Health Court exists to break this criminal cycle.
“At Vanderburgh County, Mental Health Courts is not a new idea or experiment. Sheriff Noah Robinson says.
Since its introduction, the Vanderborough County Mental Health Court has led to hundreds of offenders getting psychiatric help.
- be diagnosed with an eligible condition
- has not committed a violent felony
- Stay compliant to qualify.
“This is a great way to address underlying mental health issues that are often confused with crime,” explains Robinson.
Mental health courts are voluntary programs in which a person must work to participate, based on the details of the case. This is usually done through lawyers or prose (where the person represents themselves).
Walmart shooting suspect Ronald Moseley Jr. was confirmed to have appeared in a mental health court the day before the shooting at the Western store.
“It is impossible to predict someone’s future behavior with accuracy or reliability. Just let it go,” says Robinson.
Officials say prioritizing mental health care in these situations can reduce a person’s chances of reoffending.
