Connecting Individuals with Support Services
The Criminal Justice Deflection Program at DISC Village uses behavioral health prevention and intervention strategies to address public health and safety challenges within the community. The program focuses on reducing recidivism, improving access to behavioral health services, and strengthening collaboration between law enforcement, prosecutors, and community partners.
As a 90-day program, the Criminal Justice Deflection Program provides structured support designed to connect individuals with community treatment and support services when appropriate. Through coordinated partnerships and evidence-based approaches, the program works to create opportunities for intervention while promoting safer and healthier communities.
Population Served
The Criminal Justice Deflection Program operated by DISC Village serves law enforcement agencies and prosecutors throughout Circuit 2. The program includes three referral options, known as pathways, that allow participating agencies to select the most appropriate approach for each situation.
Each pathway is designed to address specific community needs while providing access to behavioral health services and intervention strategies that support long-term stability.
Referral Process and Eligibility
Referrals to the Criminal Justice Deflection Program are made through established partnerships with law enforcement agencies and the State Attorney’s Office.
Law enforcement officials may submit referrals by email instead of an arrest or inaction through Pathway One. Pathways Two and Three are referred to by the State Attorney’s Office as pre-arrest or diversion program cases.
These referral pathways allow participating agencies to connect individuals with services that may address underlying behavioral health needs while supporting community safety.
Services Provided Through the Program
Each pathway within the Criminal Justice Deflection Program may involve different levels of services depending on the needs of the individual. Additional behavioral health services may also be available when appropriate and are provided through a warm handoff to community partners.
Services available through the Criminal Justice Deflection Program include:
- Screening with recommendations
- Case plan development
- Intervention strategies through both group and individual services
- Stakeholder engagement and education
These services are designed to connect individuals with appropriate support while strengthening coordination between justice system partners and community providers.