Charges to be withdrawn for those who have completed treatment plans
New Brunswick’s Department of Justice and Public Safety has announced that it expects to commence Moncton’s voluntary addictions and mental health court program in 2026.
The program seeks to build upon court-diversion models and broaden access to mental health and addiction services, according to the provincial government department’s news release.
“Today’s announcement supports the government’s commitment to expand mental health court access and promote alternative pathways of justice,” said Robert McKee, New Brunswick’s justice minister and attorney general and minister responsible for addictions and mental health services, in the news release.
“This is a huge step in helping those facing criminal charges for offences influenced by their addictions and/or mental illness,” McKee added. “By connecting individuals in the justice system with effective and dignified treatment, we are emphasizing support, accountability and recovery over punishment.”
According to McKee, offering treatment and support to those involved with the criminal justice system can help tackle any deep-rooted mental health illnesses and addictions, rupture the cycle of multiple arrests, and address recidivism.
To assess eligibility, hired court navigators will collaborate with Crown prosecutors and individuals facing charges. These navigators will refer participants to the proper community supports, housing services, and other services.
The province’s courts will withdraw charges against participants who have completed their treatment plans.
According to the department’s news release, to be eligible, one should be aged 18 or older with a criminal charge associated with moderate to severe substance use, a gambling disorder, or mental illness.
One facing a charge for a summary conviction offence is eligible, subject to a Crown prosecutor’s approval. The Crown prosecutor should determine that the individual does not present any public safety risk or negatively impact public confidence in the administration of justice.
The department’s news release also lists ineligible individuals, who include those with recent records for:
“I am confident the establishment of an addictions and mental health court program in Moncton will prove to be a pivotal point in our work to improve the lives of the vulnerable and protect the reputation of our community,” said John Wishart, retired CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton, in the news release.
