Polk, Partners Launch Low-Level Offender Diversion Program

by Staff Reports
Complete Care Partners, a partnership between West Yavapai Guidance Clinic and Spectrum Healthcare Group formed to provide services for the new diversion program initiated through the Yavapai County Attorney’s Office, has hired two new staff members. 
Complete Care Partners assists first-time or low-level offenders, who are better served outside of the regular court system, with program services. These include life skills, employment or education gaps, housing and transportation in addition to substance abuse and mental health treatment. 
“This exciting new program will use the leverage of the criminal justice system to encourage participation in substance abuse and mental health treatment. The incentive for the offender is dismissal of all charges upon successful completion of the program,” said Yavapai County Attorney Sheila Polk. 
Kyle Newkirk is coming on board as the managed care coordinator, with 10 years of experience as a licensed counselor and a master’s degree in counseling psychology. His experience includes individual and group therapy with an emphasis on substance abuse and he has served as the drug court liaison for the WYGC.
Care Manager Erin Ortega has 13 years of experience in community outreach and treatment planning and holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology. Erin also served as a social worker for the Yavapai Apache Nation in Camp Verde, specializing in social services and as a correctional officer with the state of Arizona.
Defendants are carefully screened by the County Attorney’s office for eligibility for the diversion program. Participants will then be assigned a care manager through Complete Care Partners, who will assess the client’s needs and set them up with an individualized program. The length will vary from three to six months to ensure the participant’s success. Current criminal charges will be dismissed for those who successfully complete the program.
“Yavapai County is one of the safest regions in the United States,” said Polk. “Studies show that diversionary programs are much less costly than sending a case through the normal court process. This new program will help us keep our streets safe while also giving low-level offenders a second chance at a productive life.”
Founded in 1966, West Yavapai Guidance Clinic helps more than 7,000 people each year with mental health, addiction, physical health care and behavioral health challenges lead heathier lives. 
 “We are excited to be a part of Complete Care Partners as we believe that, together with Spectrum Healthcare Group, we will be able to best meet the needs of our communities. We are pleased to offer a vast array of services that provide an alternative to the criminal justice system,” commented Tamara Player, CEO of WYGC.
Spectrum Healthcare Group has been present in Yavapai County since 1965, specializing in the whole health needs of our communities. Spectrum is dedicated to accessible care and provides countywide healthcare services to all communities. 
“Spectrum is thrilled to partner with West Yavapai Guidance Clinic in the delivery of diversion services. Rooted in Yavapai County, we care very much about our community and endeavor to provide the very best services we can. Through Complete Care Partners, we believe Spectrum and WYGC are best positioned to provide comprehensive care to our county,” said April Rhodes, CEO of Spectrum Healthcare Group.
Photo L to R: April Rhodes, Steven Calabrese, Shawn Hatch, Kyle Newkirk, Erin Ortega and Tamara Player.