Research Report
Behavioral Health Disabilities June 23, 2025
Reducing Arrest and Jailing of People with Mental Health Disabilities, Including Those with Intersectional Identities
This paper will explore the intersectional identities of people with mental health disabilities involved with the criminal legal system, including the added challenges they face, and the community-based, person-centered solutions that better serve us all, including by embracing, rather than stigmatizing, diversity. Throughout, we provide examples of initiatives that communities across the country, including the MacArthur Foundation’s Safety + Justice Challenge network cities and counties, are undertaking to better serve a diverse population and reduce their exposure to law enforcement and incarceration. These community initiatives are not only more effective and humane than using criminal enforcement mechanisms to address mental health challenges, but also help communities comply with civil rights laws and federal protections for people with mental health disabilities by providing services in the most integrated setting and ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to benefit from public programs and services.
