Mental Health and the Justice System in Durham County (2025-2026)
This project team examined how mental health interventions within the criminal justice system affect outcomes for individuals living with mental illness, a population that is disproportionately represented in correctional settings. Working with the Durham County Detention Facility (DCTF), Duke Health and community partners, the team sought to identify which programs are most effective in reducing recidivism and supporting successful reentry.
Using a longitudinal dataset linking detention facility and health care records, team members evaluated the effectiveness of DCTF programs. A major accomplishment was completing an analysis of the Therapeutic Housing Unit (THU), which serves individuals with significant mental health needs. The team found that participants whose mental health symptoms improved while in the THU were 11% less likely to be rebooked into the detention facility after release. Team members also developed a statistical model that can be used to evaluate additional programs in the future.
The team further analyzed focus group data related to the STARR (Substance Use Treatment and Recidivism Reduction) drug education program, identifying key facilitators and barriers to participant success. Findings were shared with the Durham County Justice Services Department to support evidence-based decision-making and improve services for individuals with mental health and substance use challenges.
Timing
Summer 2025 – Spring 2026
Team Outputs
Mental Health and the Justice System in Durham County 2025-2026: Striving to understand associations between healthcare utilization and outcomes among people involved in the Durham County justice system (Poster presentation at the Fortin Foundation Bass Connections Showcase, April 15, 2026)
Stakeholder Report: Mental Health and the Justice System in Durham County Bass Connections Team
Manuscript submitted for publication
See related teams, Mental Health and the Justice System (2024-2025) and Mental Health and the Justice System in Durham County (2026-2027).