By Rich Larson
Rice County is set to launch a new Mental Health Court next month, becoming the sixth such program in Minnesota as local officials respond to a growing number of justice-involved residents with serious mental illness.
County leaders say the need has intensified in recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Community Corrections Manager Angela Brewer has observed not only an increase in cases, but greater severity among individuals struggling with mental health issues tied to criminal behavior. That trend prompted Brewer, County Attorney Brian Mortenson and District Court Judge Christine Long to pursue a specialized court designed to address those underlying conditions.
The effort faced setbacks early on. A 2023 federal grant application was not selected, but momentum continued after Brewer identified funding opportunities through Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis law, which allocates support for new treatment courts. After months of planning by a multi-disciplinary team and approval from state judicial bodies this spring, the program is now ready to begin.
Mental health courts are part of a broader movement of “problem-solving courts” that aim to divert individuals away from incarceration and into supervised treatment. First established in the late 1990s, these courts were developed in response to the growing number of people with serious mental illness cycling through jails and traditional court systems.
Today, hundreds operate nationwide, using a collaborative model in which judges, attorneys, mental health professionals and probation officers work together to monitor participants’ progress and provide support. Programs typically require participants to follow structured treatment plans, attend regular court sessions and remain compliant with conditions such as medication and counseling.
Research suggests such courts can improve outcomes, including reducing repeat offenses and increasing stability for participants, though results vary based on program design and completion rates.
Rice County’s program will follow a similar framework. Participants must be adults with a diagnosed serious and persistent mental illness, and their criminal behavior must be linked to that condition. The court will provide intensive supervision, coordinated treatment and access to services such as housing and basic needs.
Judge Long emphasized that participants will be required to take accountability for their actions while engaging in treatment and developing life skills. Progress will be rewarded, while setbacks will be addressed through sanctions or adjustments in services.
Officials say the goal extends beyond individual outcomes. Mortenson said the program has the potential to strengthen families and communities by helping participants regain stability and independence, saying it will give a family member back to a family
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
