Starke County Justice Team Participates in Regional Training

Ten Starke County representatives attended a training session at Indiana University’s South Bend campus this week on how to respond to mental health disorders, and substance abuse in the effort to combat opioid addiction.

Starke Circuit Court Judge Kim Hall, Prosecuting Attorney Leslie Baker, defense counsel, Porter-Starke Services personnel, pretrial probation officers, probation officers and Community Corrections officers all attended the training that presented approaches on how to assess treatment resources, gaps, and opportunities across the local justice systems. 

According to information released by Starke County Court Services, the Starke County Justice Team developed a map of how to progress through the local criminal justice system with a person identified with substance abuse and other mental health disorders.  Treatment interventions and access to treatment, and behavioral health concerns were addressed.

A $60,000 grant is available to help in this effort.  Applicants must provide a description of the proposed planning, implementation, or enhancement efforts, evidence of cross-system collaboration, and a detailed budget reflecting how the funds will be used.