Cobb Mental Health Court Graduates Second Class

MARIETTA, GA -- The Cobb County Mental Health Court (MHC) will hold its second graduation ceremony at noon, Thursday, April 14, 2016 at the Cobb Superior Court, Ceremonial Courtroom-2nd floor.

Three men and women have fulfilled all the requirements of the court program. This ceremony marks their completion of a 24 month treatment - based curriculum for defendants with a documented mental health diagnosis.

“I’m so proud of our graduates. Their commitment to succeed is inspiring.” says Adrienne Bowen, Mental Health Court Coordinator. “Each participant comes to MHC with a unique set of issues- as well as skills, strengths, and determination. The MHC provides structure and accountability to address issues while enhancing the skills and strengths.”

According to the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, 33 percent of the current inmate population is diagnosed with a mental illness, and an estimated $300,000.00 is spent annually on medications to treat these illnesses. The Cobb County MHC seeks to stop the revolving door and address the actual problem instead of the symptom.

MHC is one of three Accountability Courts offered in the Cobb Superior Court, and began under the direction of Judge Mary E. Staley on April 24, 2013. MHC strives to improve mental health, promote self sufficiency, reduce recidivism, and offer cost effective alternatives to incarceration and hospitalization. MHC represents an effort to increase effective cooperation between two systems that have traditionally not worked closely together- The Mental Health System and The Criminal Justice System. MHC holds defendants accountable and assists participants in achieving long term stability, become law abiding citizens, and successful family/ community members.