The Collin County Adult Mental Health Court’s outstanding efforts in providing individualized care to its participants have earned them the Judge Ruben G. Reyes Outstanding Specialty Court Team Award at the Texas Association of Specialty Courts (TASC) Conference. Collin County’s official news release reports that this accolade shines a light on their impactful blend of judicial oversight, community partnerships, and tailored treatment plans that have significantly bettered lives while contributing to public safety.
Under the helm of Judge Jennifer Edgeworth, the court team, which encompasses both Judge Edgeworth and Judge Lance Baxter, program coordinator Nessa Reid, case manager Michelle Garcia, defense lawyer Rogan McDaniel, and prosecutor Kaylie Gillman has pioneered a collaborative approach that since its concept it’s celebrated the graduation of 27 individuals overcoming mental health challenges, “This award is a testament to the incredible work and dedication of the Adult Mental Health Court team,” Judge Edgeworth stated, per county’s press release, championing the idea of breaking the incarceration cycle and spotlighting the commitment to serving the Collin County community.
The Specialty Court’s relationship with local mental health authority Life Path Systems is crucial. Personnel like Kanz Kayfan, Philana Ransom, and Amanda Valgren attend court meetings and provide counseling to support participants directly. The award also acknowledges the contributions of former team members Donald Bell, Molly Craft, and Judge Kim Laseter, who played a role in fostering this supportive environment…