New Mental Health Unit Opens At Contra Costa Jail

WALNUT CREEK, CA - A module designed to help inmates with mental health issues has opened at the Martinez Detention Facility. It is meant to create a calm environment, reduce stress and be more conducive to therapy, the sheriff's office said. Inmates will be supervised 24/7. The cells are all single-occupancy and five of them are dedicated to acute cases.

The unit, which previously held 52 inmates, can now house just 24 inmates.

“I am proud of this new module which is part of the jail modernization we planned many years ago,” Contra Costa County Sheriff David Livingston said. “Now, inmates who have mental illnesses will have a dedicated housing unit where they will receive mental health treatment, programming, and services, in addition to healthcare.”

The remodel included incorporating the latest technology and best practices for detention facilities including new software, furniture that can help prevent suicides and a design that allows the inmates to be observed more easily. It also includes two private medical evaluation suites.

“This new module sets the standard for these types of detention facilities,” Livingston said. “This reflects the commitment of the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office and Contra Costa County in serving the needs of inmates who are living with mental health issues.”