U.S. Attorney Murray Announces $326,150 Federal Grant to Support Mental Health Programs for Those in Contact with Justice Systems in New Hampshire

            CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray today announced a $326,150 Department of Justice grant to Carroll County to support adult and juvenile justice initiatives to reduce crime and recidivism associated with mental illness and co-occurring disorders.

               “More and more people with mental illness are coming into contact with the criminal justice system, straining law enforcement resources and placing exceptional demands on our jails and prisons,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “By supporting partnerships between justice system professionals and treatment providers, we are making substantial investments in addressing the link between mental health and public safety.”

               Provided through the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, the funding supports efforts that establish collaborative anti-recidivism comprehensive care before, during and after incarceration for persons with serious mental illness. The funding also supports training and technical assistance to law enforcement, other criminal justice agencies and their partner mental health and substance abuse authorities to improve outcomes for youth with mental illness or co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders.

               “Many individuals who enter the criminal justice system are suffering from mental health issues,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “It is imperative that these individuals be given access to appropriate treatment.  By addressing and treating the underlying mental health issues, we can reduce recurring contacts with police, decrease incarceration levels and promote public safety.”

                For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

                The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years

###