California DA's Push for Tougher Mental Health Diversion Laws
Fresno News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · The Daily News Now!
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California Prosecutors Push for Stricter Mental Health Diversion Laws
Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp is leading a push for reform in Californias mental health diversion laws. The current system, which allows some defendants to skip jail for treatment instead, is being criticized for being too easy to access, especially for common diagnoses like depression or anxiety that may not fit serious crimes.
A key concern is the case of a man convicted of a brutal stabbing attack who had previously received diversion. Smittcamp argues that current laws leave judges with little power to reject unsuitable cases, posing public safety risks.
To address these issues, district attorneys are backing Assembly Bill forty-six, which would require a mental health diagnosis within the past five years before the crime to qualify for diversion. The bill has been moving through the legislature for over a year and is set for a key committee hearing next Tuesday. Supporters argue that the measure will make the law fairer and safer for everyone.
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