PORT ANGELES – Clallam County’s Mental Health Court is marking its third anniversary with growing participation and promising results. The therapeutic court, created to help individuals with treatable mental illnesses avoid repeated incarceration, recently celebrated its largest graduation yet with three participants completing the program.
Judge Dave Neupert, who oversees the court, said the program now has 20 active participants and has surpassed expectations since its launch.
“We currently have 19 people participating, and just last week, three participants graduated — which was a significant milestone for us. It’s the first time we’ve had that many complete the program at once. What made it possible is that our participants are supporting each other and maintaining a strong sense of continuity. We’re encouraged by the progress we’re seeing and the foundation that’s being built on that success,” Neupert told Newsradio KONP’s Todd Ortloff Show this week.
The court focuses on misdemeanor-level offenders with diagnosed mental health conditions. With cooperation from the Prosecutor’s and Public Defender’s offices, candidates are screened for eligibility and commitment to a structured, year-long program involving counseling, medication management, and regular court check-ins.
Tamara Vanover of the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office plays a key role in identifying eligible candidates during incarceration. Many are already receiving mental health services or seeking support while in jail.
“We have a high number of individuals in our community — and entering the jail — who struggle not only with mental health issues but often with substance use disorders as well. The percentage can vary, but it’s typically around 80% of those currently in jail who have some form of mental health diagnosis either historical or current,” said Vanover
Participants progress through four phases, with compliance determining how quickly they advance. The program blends support with accountability, using both incentives and sanctions such as writing assignments, community service, or jail time to keep individuals on track.
“The ultimate consequence, though rarely used, is that we can determine someone is not a suitable participant and remove them from the program — which could result in a criminal conviction. During the program, we use a range of interim measures. Participants may be required to complete community service or writing assignments to encourage self-reflection and accountability. There are certainly sanctions in place. This program is not a pass or a free ride — we have every right to expect that participants are putting forth their best effort forward,” said Neupert.
The court is funded through state grants and a local sales tax dedicated to behavioral health.
Looking ahead, Neupert said the county is preparing to launch a veterans court, supported by state resources and local veteran organizations. Clallam has the highest per-capita veteran population in Washington and sees strong potential in a peer-based model similar to the Mental Health Court.