Special Services Docket had 116 graduates in 2024! Diversion programs benefit us all.

In 2024, the Special Services Docket (SSD) achieved remarkable success in its mission to support individuals affected by mental illness, substance use disorders, and homelessness who have committed low-level municipal offenses. Operating in partnership with the City of Tulsa, this program offers participants an opportunity to avoid jail time or fines in favor of a more rehabilitative approach. Instead of facing incarceration, individuals are paired with case managers to receive the help and support they need to address the underlying causes of their offenses. In doing so, the SSD program not only aids individuals but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.?

We are excited to report that 116 SSD participants graduated from the program last year. These individuals, many of whom had faced chronic homelessness or struggled with addiction and mental health issues, were able to complete the program and work toward a more stable future. The program offers participants a structured six-month course, during which they receive case management services that support their goals to address mental health or substance use struggles, find gainful employment or secure stable housing. Then, upon completion, graduates can have their charges dismissed, their fees and fines suspended, and, in some cases, their records expunged. These outcomes allow individuals to pursue employment and housing opportunities more freely, contributing to their reintegration into society – outcomes that benefit everyone.?

On average, 84% of the graduates do not go on to re-offend.?

This is a notable accomplishment, especially considering that the program serves individuals with complex needs, such as mental illness and substance abuse disorders. By addressing these underlying issues and providing participants with tools to rebuild their lives, the SSD helps to prevent further involvement in the criminal justice system.?

The positive effects of the SSD go far beyond individual success stories. For instance, one graduate, who had experienced homelessness for more than a decade, entered the SSD program after being charged with larceny. These offenses had followed her throughout her life, creating significant barriers to employment, housing and even the ability to maintain visitation with her children. However, through her commitment to change and the support provided by the SSD team, she was able to graduate, expunge her record, secure full-time employment and stabilize her housing situation. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of the SSD program and its potential to help individuals regain control of their lives.?

In addition to the personal success stories, the SSD program has delivered substantial financial benefits to the City of Tulsa. In 2024, the program resulted in approximately $284,000 in fines and fees waived, and 3,103 jail days were avoided by graduates.??

These efforts saved the City of Tulsa – and ultimately the taxpayers – $579,765, a significant increase of $342,271 from the previous year.??

These savings highlight the cost-effectiveness of the SSD program compared to traditional criminal prosecution and incarceration, which often carries higher costs for the city and taxpayers. A study published by the National Institute for Health (NIH) supports this.?

The value of diversion programs like the SSD isn’t just monetary. These programs prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, focusing on helping individuals address the root causes of their criminal behavior. This approach not only helps participants create better lives for themselves but also fosters a safer and more stable community. When individuals can access the resources they need to improve their mental health, address substance use, secure housing and gain employment, they are better positioned to contribute positively to society. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of future offenses and strengthens the overall fabric of the community.?

Diversion programs are essential in reducing the stigma associated with criminal convictions. By offering an alternative to jail time, participants can avoid having a criminal record that might otherwise prevent them from securing employment or housing. This not only helps individuals regain their independence but also enables them to participate fully in society without the burden of a conviction following them.?

Diversion programs also play a critical role in early intervention. By intervening with individuals who have committed low-level offenses, these programs prevent minor infractions from escalating into more serious criminal behavior. Addressing issues like addiction, homelessness and mental health early on allows individuals to receive the support they need before their situations worsen, ultimately contributing to long-term community safety.?

Because of the results we’ve experienced and the data that supports these efforts, we are so excited to enter our 11th year of the Special Services Docket program and continue providing an alternative to incarceration and help more Tulsans become successfully engaged in the community.??

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The 2024 Special Services Docket successes couldn’t have happened without the generous funding from Hardesty Family Foundation, Oklahoma Bar Foundation and Tulsa Area United Way.?

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