Baltimore's District Court Mental Health Court celebrated the graduation of twelve participants, including 21-year-old Arianna Santos, in a ceremony held in the city's Brooklyn neighborhood on Monday afternoon.
Santos, who faced legal challenges at the age of 18 due to anger management issues, was deemed incompetent to stand trial because of an intellectual disability. However, the court determined she posed no threat to public safety, leading her to join the mental health court program.
During her time in the program, Santos spent six months at the Potomac Center, a state facility in Hagerstown, where she earned her high school diploma from Clear Spring High School and participated in educational trips to Spain and Portland, Oregon. She has been actively engaged with mental health providers and support organizations, including Living Sans Frontieres.
Judge Theresa Morse, who oversees the mental health court, explained that participants are often referred from criminal court either as part of a plea agreement or if they are found incompetent to stand trial. The court aims to address the underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior through a collaborative treatment plan involving court staff and mental health professionals.
Santos shared her experience at the graduation, stating that the program helped her gain independence and develop important life skills. Judge Morse highlighted the significance of the ceremony, calling it a “celebration of courage” and acknowledging the hard work of the graduates in committing to their treatment and personal growth.
Among the attendees was Darryl Harper, a graduate from the previous year, who spoke about his personal journey through grief and homelessness, which led him to the mental health court. Harper emphasized the positive impact of therapy and support on his life.
As Santos looks to the future, she is currently living in Owings Mills, working in fast food, and aiming to further her education to support children with autism.
Reported by HarborBeat based on Maryland Daily Record (source).
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