The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors made the decision on Tuesday to expand a program that offers an alternative approach to incarcerating inmates with mental health problems.
In order to increase the capacity, the board proposed expanding the number of Forensic In-Patient Stepdown and High Observation Dorm Unit pods from six to thirty by June 30, 2025.
Supervisor Hilda Solis put forward a motion to expand the FIP-HO Dorm pods at the Twin Towers jail and Century Regional Detention Facility, specifically for individuals charged with or incarcerated for criminal behavior connected to their mental health. The motion emphasizes that FIPS-Stepdown provides an environment that deviates from the conventional jail setting.
In her visit to the county’s FIPS facility, Solis noted the presence of painted walls adorned with murals, as well as the overall cleanliness and orderliness of the premises.
Solis highlighted the significant presence of mentally trained inmates called Mental Health Assistants, who carry out various custodial duties alongside other inmates. These assistants are compensated for their work and receive six months of recruitment and training.
During the board meeting, Solis introduced one of the assistants, Craig Anderson.
Anderson addressed the supervisors, emphasizing the importance and value of their work, stating, “It’s a matter of life or death to us.”
Solis’ motion also requests ongoing recruitment of volunteer Mental Health Assistants, including through training initiatives held at least twice a year, and additional funding for the purchase of necessary goods, supplies, equipment, and services to expand FIP-Stepdown and HO Dorm pods within the county jails. Furthermore, it proposes an increase in the delegated purchasing authority of the sheriff and the director of Health Services to $50,000.
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