OAKLAND, Calif. (KRON) — Alameda County’s new district attorney said she is trying a different approach to the county’s “mental health crisis” by finding new pathways for families who have loved ones suffering from mental illness.
The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office announced the creation of the District Attorney’s Mental Health Commission, a volunteer group of 26 parents and community activists.
The new commission will help improve how the District Attorney’s Office responds to residents with mental health challenges who are impacted by the criminal justice system.
District Attorney Pamela Price said the new commission is part of her vision for change.
“We want to treat people suffering with mental health issues with the care and responsible justice they deserve,” Price said. “The creation of this commission is just the beginning in effecting change. This is a step in the right direction in providing alternatives to mass incarceration.”