Innovative diversion program identifies employment as key factor

Originally published in The Journal Record: Melissa Walton is the executive director of the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council.

After decades of relying heavily on incarceration, the Oklahoma County justice system is investing more in early diversion efforts that are more promising and offer more effective paths forward. Thanks to our partners and the leadership of the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council (CJAC), alternatives to jail are now more coordinated, better funded, and more focused on long-term outcomes. One of the most promising efforts underway right now is the Misdemeanor Diversion Program (MDP), out of Diversion Hub. Data from this program has made clear that stable employment is the single most important factor in helping people exit the justice system for good.

CJAC’s role in expanding and sustaining this program demonstrates the power of cross-agency collaboration. The expansion of MDP was made possible through a federal Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program (COSSUP) grant secured with CJAC as the fiscal sponsor. CJAC was able to fulfill the eligibility requirements as a government entity, a requirement that emphasizes partnership and collaboration with non-profit organizations to effectively respond to the opioid crisis. With Diversion Hub managing day-to-day case management and Red Rock Behavioral Health providing an on-site therapist and peer support specialist, the program has diverted more than 550 people from jail, providing wraparound services like housing assistance, substance use treatment, and employment support.

That employment piece is critical. Participants who had jobs at the time of intake were 3.4 times more likely to complete the program successfully. In fact, employment has proven to be the most reliable indicator of success. Even among those with prior convictions, 70% of participants were still able to graduate when supported by tailored case management and behavioral health resources. Overall, MDP boasts a nearly 78% graduation rate and has cut recidivism nearly in half, compared to the general population of justice-involved people.

Read the full opinion editorial here.