Friday, June 17, 2005

NAACP Recognizes Levinson

The Atlantic City Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) presented Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson with a resolution in recognition of the county's ambitious efforts to reduce the rate of recidivism among inmates at the county jail. The resolution was presented to Levinson by Steve Young, Chairperson of the Atlantic City Chapter of the NAACP's Prison and Reform Committee, on June 17, 2005 at the Atlantic County Library in Mays Landing.

Recognizing the need to address the escalating number of repeat offenders, Atlantic County initiated a program in February, 2005 to connect inmates released from the county jail with community-based agencies to provide them with resources to support their return to their families and their communities. It already appears to be having a positive impact. Approximately 10 percent of the inmates release from the county's Gerard L. Gormley Justice Facility since February have been returned to the facility, compared to a national average recidivism rate of 60 percent as reported by the U.S. Department of Justice.

"Although it is in its infancy, this program shows great promise for helping Atlantic County reduce the number of individuals who are reincarcerated," stated Levinson.

Levinson explained that the program focuses on addressing disorders such as mental illness and drug addiction that, left untreated, often lead individuals to break the law.

As a result of a collaboration between the county, state and 20 private, non-profit agencies, inmates awaiting release from the county jail are assessed by a county clinician and assigned a discharge plan that requires them to meet with agency staff and community volunteers who direct them to support services for housing, treatment and employment, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful transition and eventual self-sufficiency.

"I am grateful to Mr. Young and the NAACP for this important recognition," stated Levinson. "With their support, we will continue to seek new programs that strengthen the ability of our citizens to lead productive lives while at the same time protecting the public."

Levinson also took the opportunity to express his appreciation to the program's staff members and community volunteers who each received a certificate of appreciation.

County News