The Forensic Intervention and Re-Entry Services Team (FIRST) serves adults with mental illness involved in the criminal justice system in Leon and Gadsden Counties. Without intervention, many would face commitment to a forensic state hospital. FIRST is available at all stages — pending proceedings, incarceration, mental health pre-trial release, probation and conditional release.

FIRST diverts individuals from detention facilities to community services and addresses barriers to successful supervision that often lead to re-arrest like unstable housing, loss of benefits and lack of job readiness. FIRST also offers a forensic day services program.

Eligibility

Individuals who qualify are on mental health pre-trial release, mental health probation, conditional release or are currently incarcerated and:

  • Are at least 18 years old
  • Have a primary mental health diagnosis
  • Reside in Leon or Gadsden Counties
  • Have a pending felony or misdemeanor case and/or need competency restoration or are at risk for forensic commitment

Individuals participating in day services must also:

  • Be capable of participation in group and individual programming
  • Be free of chronic inappropriate behaviors that disrupt the program, cause harm to themself or others
  • Not be registered sex offenders or charged with a sexual offense

Services

  • Liaison services with detention facilities and courts
  • Case coordination
  • Re-entry planning
  • Case management
  • Medication management
  • Group and individual therapy
  • Group and individual psychosocial rehabilitation (PSR)
  • Benefits restoration

Referrals

To make a referral to FIRST, email ForensicTeam@ApalacheeCenter.org.