The San Bernardino County Court system will hold a virtual town hall meeting about mental health in the justice system. Ernest Figueroa has more information about the town hall and how to sign up…
“Eliminating Bias: Addressing Mental Health in the Justice System” will be the subject of the San Bernardino Superior Court’s third public town hall meeting on Thursday, March 25, from noon to 1:15 p.m.
During this 75-minute virtual online town hall, leaders within the county justice system will continue an ongoing conversation on bias and community impacts by answering questions and providing information about programs and services available to the public for individuals who suffer from mental illness, their families, and the organizations that serve them.
“We hope that you join the conversation on March 25 and hear about the important mental health programs and services available through our justice partners,” said Presiding Judge Michael A. Sachs.
Opening remarks will be provided by Sachs, with moderation by Judge John M. Pacheco and Judge Winston Keh. Panelists will include Judge Tara Reilly, Judge Michael Knish, Judge Denise Trager Dvorak, and Commissioner Ronald Gilbert. The panel will also include Dr. Veronica Kelley, director of the County Department of Behavioral Health; Deputy District Attorney Katherine Norman, Deputy Public Defender IV Lisa Slade, Supervising Probation Officer Diana Waitschies, and Probation Officer III Todd Holmes.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us a great deal about gaps in our society, including the lack of priority placed upon behavioral health,” said Dr. Kelley. “The Department of Behavioral Health is pleased to join our partners in the Superior Court in acknowledging the importance of attending to mental health and addiction and identifying the stigma and bias that exists related to both. We can’t change it if we don’t address it.”
Members of the public must register in advance of the event and are encouraged to submit their questions and/or comments to [email protected].
