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The Clark County Detention Center has recently implemented a great program to help inmates who are struggling with substance use disorder.
Instead of simply being criminally punished for their behavior, Las Vegas residents who go through the Clark County Justice system will have access to a dedicated social worker at their facility.
This social worker’s main priority will be to help inmates identify and address issues that caused their current incarceration situations. From there, the social worker should help inmates learn more about the tools they’ll need to get back on their feet once they’re out of jail. This education is designed to help the inmate be more successful when they are released and prevent recidivism.
Many inmates in the Clark County facilities are homeless when they aren’t incarcerated, and some arrive at jail addicted to substances. These social workers can help specific inmates who are enrolled in the county’s Medical Assisted Therapy program in developing a transition plan for once they’re released from jail. Currently, there are around 95 inmates in the MAT program in the county.
One way the new program facilitates success rates is by physically transporting the incarcerated individuals to a shelter with open beds, a mental health clinic, or substance abuse facilities that can help. This handoff ensures that the inmate receives the help they need upon their release. It also helps prevent the former inmate from suddenly stopping whatever medication they’ve been prescribed as part of their treatment plan while incarcerated.
Data from the county revealed that the average daily population in the jail is about 3,000 residents. Most inmates spend around 18 days behind bars.
Since this program is very new, the impacts of their efforts remain unclear yet. It’s logical, though, to assume that inmates who are provided with extensive transition plans, help, and resources are more likely to succeed than inmates who are simply given their freedom and expected to thrive.
Many inmates who aren’t provided any help wind up falling back into their old patterns and back into the criminal justice system again.
Have you recently been charged with a crime? Have you struggled with substance abuse in the past, or are you worried that you would fall back into your old habits and use again once you’re released from jail?
If you’re struggling, then know that there are resources designed specifically to help people in your exact situation. The best way to get connected with the right resources that are willing to help you with what you need is to speak with a criminal defense attorney who will advocate for you. They’ll work to ensure that you are afforded as much help as possible.
Here at LV Criminal Defense, our team of lawyers can help you access the legal counsel and other resources you need to navigate the legal system.
Whether you’ve recently been charged with a crime or you’re planning out your release details, it’s a good idea to contact an attorney for personalized legal advice based on your unique circumstances.
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