(Woodland, CA) – April 19, 2024 – On Wednesday, April 17th, two participants, Jason McGrath and Anthony Massey, graduated from the Yolo County Mental Health Diversion Court. Judge Janet Gaard presided over the graduation and reminded the participants that they started Mental Health Diversion Court at the same time and now are graduating on the same day.
Mental Health Diversion Court is one of Yolo County’s specialty courts that launched in October, 2021. The goal of the court is to enhance public safety and reduce recidivism of those who live with mental illness and/or a substance use disorder which were a significant factor in the commission of their criminal offense. The program accomplishes this by supporting their participation in community treatment, be it substance use treatment, mental health counseling, medical health treatment, getting identifications or driver’s licenses, and any number of other issues that arise through the process.
This is done with the collaboration of the District Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, the Probation Department, the Sheriff’s Department, the Court, and CommuniCareOLE Health Centers all working together to support the clients. Program requirements include maintaining sobriety, being medication compliant if appropriate, attending all required appointments and court hearings and writing reflective essays for each of the four phases to be completed.
Multiple speakers today spoke about the amazing changes they have seen in both participants. One speaker was so grateful for the program and the difference it had made for Anthony that she urged the other participants to continue on the journey and get well. Both Jason and Anthony thanked the team for all the help. Judge Janet Gaard presented Anthony and Jason their certificates of completion.
###
