AG Hosts Third Mental Health and Criminal Justice Round Table

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody today hosted part three of the Attorney General’s Mental Health and Criminal Justice Round Table Summer Series. The discussion, held at the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, focused on best practices for addressing mental health issues among those individuals awaiting trial, serving time and released after completing jail sentences—with a focus on preventing crime. Law enforcement from across Florida joined Attorney General Moody in the discussion, sharing strategies to increase safety and decrease recidivism.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Mental health issues left untreated among individuals awaiting trial or released after completing their jail sentences can pose a serious public safety risk. I am encouraged by today’s round table discussion and hopeful the information and strategies shared will enhance the safety of our law enforcement officers and the citizens they serve.”

Attorney General Moody launched the summer series this May in Tampa. Part one focused on addressing mental health issues within Florida’s law enforcement ranks. According to BlueHelp.org, 165 active and retired law enforcement officers nationwide committed suicide in 2018. That same year, 163 officers died in the line of duty. For more information about part one of the series, click here.

Part two of the series centered on how to make a difference in reducing recidivism and streamlining costs by coming up with innovative ways to handle persons experiencing a mental health episode prior to arrest. The round table discussion was held in West Palm Beach. For more information about part two of the series, click here.

For more information on Attorney General Moody’s Mental Health and Criminal Justice Round Table Summer Series, click here.