What are Jail Diversion Services?

Jail Diversion Services are available to adults that have a Serious and Persistent Mental Illness or a Developmental Disability who is subject to arrest or have been arrested for a non-violent felony or misdemeanor. The purpose of Jail Diversion Services is to divert individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities from incarceration by linking them with appropriate mental health or substance use disorder services in the community. Jail Diversion Services can be offered on a pre-booking or post-booking basis. Jail Diversion Services are voluntary, so any eligible individuals must give consent to participate in program services.

How can Jail Diversion Services Benefit an Individual?

Individuals eligible for Jail Diversion Services will receive immediate treatment for their mental health and/or substance abuse condition and will avoid incarceration altogether or receive a shorter jail stay.

How can you access Jail Diversion Services?

Jail Diversion Services can be accessed on a pre-booking basis by contacting the Emergency Services Department who will complete a preadmission screening. Emergency Services may be reached by calling at 1-800-327-4693 or 989-895-2300.

Post-booking services can be accessed through the Jail Liaison who is available to perform mental health evaluations at the jail twice weekly. For more information contact 1-800-327-4693.