When Barrie Police officers are making a mental health arrest, there can often be other charges issued at the same time.

For minor charges like shoplifting, fraud, mischief, causing a disturbance or possession of stolen property, the Canadian Mental Health Association can help.

In 2003, a court support program was started to assist those with mental illness deal with the legal system. It’s for people aged 16 and up, and is a voluntary program that anyone can make a referral to.

Susan Boyles, human services justice system co-ordinator with the local CMHA, said most of the clients already have a documented record of mental illness; it’s not usually someone who hasn’t been diagnosed yet.

People with fetal alcohol syndrome, acquired brain injuries, intellectual disabilities, addiction issues and Alzheimer’s disease can also qualify for the program.

Working from an office at the Barrie courthouse, staff assists by finding legal aid or duty counsel for the accused, can help recommend a sentence or, if the client is remanded into custody, can remind them of their next court date.

After someone with a mental illness is charged, the case is reviewed by the Crown attorney and a diversion program can be issued instead of jail time.

The services offered are usually short-term while the case is before the courts, said Boyles.

But if the person is denied bail and must remain behind bars, there is help within the corrections system too. “We also have a release from custody program, where we make a plan for the client after they are released from jail,” said Boyles.

Three full-time case managers work at the Central North Correctional Centre, and one at the Enaahtig Healing Lodge & Learning Centre in Victoria Harbour, said Boyles.

Since 2006, the program has helped clients find things like housing, addiction counselling, and health care for their illness.

Boyles said it’s somewhat difficult to track the success rate of the program because clients can be released to a shelter and don’t necessarily have any follow-up contact information.

She did say that sometimes a familiar name appears on the court docket, and they are there to help again, if requested.

“The government is helping to fund this program in order to reduce recidivism rates. If the service is there, the likelihood of someone re-offending is going to drop.”

The same release from custody program is running in Lindsay through the Central East Correctional Centre, and it has shown some success. One example was a client who was facing abuse at home, had addiction issues and a physical disability. He’d usually re-offend within a few days because he knew in jail, he had food, wasn’t abused and got his meds. After seven times through the program, he didn’t re-offend for two months. It was a small step, but still considered a success.

For more information about the court support or release from custody programs offered in Simcoe County, call 733-2113.