For many voters and residents in Hamilton County, this role may not seem very important unless he or she is a defendant or the victim of a crime. However, this judicial position is important to the entire community not only because the criminal courts uphold constitutional protections for all citizens, but also because of the role this judge will play in the county’s mental health court.

Mental health court, created to connect justice-involved mental health consumers with diagnostic help, treatment and other resources, falls within Division III’s jurisdiction and is a critical component of our justice system. As the judge presiding over cases involving mental health, I will prioritize enhancing the resources available to individuals to prevent repeat offenses and jail overcrowding, provide effective treatment solutions and ease the undue burden that often falls to law enforcement due to lack of alternatives.

According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Justice, individuals battling a mental health crisis are most often arrested and taken to jail without another alternative. In fact, the state average for the Tennessee jail population suffering mental health disorders is higher than the national average. Simply put, our police officers are not equipped to handle mental health crises and our jails are not designed to be mental health treatment facilities. This places a tremendous burden and strain on our law enforcement officers while serving as a band-aid solution for individuals in desperate need of proper mental health treatment.

In addition, many individuals who have not been connected to proper treatment self-medicate, often resulting in drug addiction, homelessness and repeat offenses. As judge, I will work jointly with drug recovery court and community organizations dedicated to supporting those facing mental health crises to help end this cycle that impacts all of us in Hamilton County.

While it’s a judge’s responsibility to ensure justice is upheld, I will be committed to ensuring defendants have resources and support to reduce further crime. In doing so, our law enforcement and partner agencies can focus on combatting crime and other public safety issues. This approach will not only support those facing mental health issues and our law enforcement, but also promote safer streets and a more economic use of our tax dollars. To learn more about my vision and values, please feel free to contact me here.