MOCJ Programs
Alternatives to Incarceration
Redirecting justice-involved New Yorkers away from jails and into community-based support.
Court‑mandated diversion programming offering mental‑health, substance‑use and vocational services as alternatives to incarceration—safely reducing the jail population and supporting participants in their communities.
Partner PROGRAMS & ORGANIZATIONS
Services Provided & Focus Domains
Mental health & substance use treatment
Trauma‑informed individual and group counseling
Vocational, educational and housing supports
Impact & Highlights
Who It’s For
- Individuals mandated by judges as alternatives to jail
- Serves people with non-violent and violent felony charges
- Located citywide
Why?
New York City faces persistent jail overcrowding and disparities in sentencing. Traditional incarceration often fails to reduce recidivism—frequent re-incarceration worsens community instability.
History
Launched in 2014, New York City’s Alternatives to Incarceration program began by diverting 4,000 people annually from jail into supervised, community-based services. By 2017, expanded funding and partnerships grew that number to over 5,500, with targeted support for women and those with behavioral health needs.
Following 2020 bail reforms, the program broadened its reach to include people facing serious charges, increasing the citywide impact and reducing reliance on jail. Today, ATI programs play a critical role in decarceration efforts—keeping thousands out of jail while improving individual and community outcomes.
By diverting eligible individuals into community-based services, ATI:
- Reduces reliance on jail and lowers the jail population
- Addresses root causes and helps individuals stabilize in their communities
- Allows participants to maintain family, housing, and employment ties
Partner Organizations
Frequently Asked Questions
Entry is court-mandated; judges determine eligibility based on charges and individual circumstances.
Yes, ATI programs include regular check-ins and court reporting, but focus on supportive, not punitive supervision.
Non-compliance may result in the alternative option being revoked, but the system aims to address compliance barriers via coaching and support.
While citywide studies are ongoing, national research and local data suggest diversion programs significantly reduce recidivism when wraparound services are provided.