Inmate Re-entry

Beginning at sentencing (pre-release) and extending beyond release, the Newport News Sheriff’s Office Re-entry team assesses and links inmates with services and programs specific to their needs.

At least 90 days prior to release, inmates are asked if they’d like to participate in the post-release re-entry program. Participation is voluntary. Although the work begins while they are still incarcerated, post-release ensures continuity of services in the community, which is important to ex-offenders’ success.

Mission

The mission of the Newport News Re-entry Council is to coordinate resources through collaborative efforts of stakeholders, to enhance and create opportunities for offenders and ex-offenders, and to advocate for systematic improvements and policy changes for re-entry.

Vision

The Council’s vision is to create a regional strategy that offers the opportunity for education, housing, employment, mental health services, and other social services to ensure successful reintegration of individuals transitioning from the criminal justice system into the community.  This includes employment practices, public policies, and changing public opinion.

Operational Highlights

Without a “one size fits all” solution, the Newport News Re-Entry Council is instrumental in bringing interested parties to the table to move towards implementing a system of care with a focus on measurable outcomes. Many initiatives in place throughout the city enhance reintegration of citizens returning from incarceration.  To improve public safety, target outcomes include reduced recidivism, reduced substance abuse, reduced homelessness, improved health and wellness, increased employment, increased family connectedness, and increased systems collaboration.

Click here for a list of programs offered for inmates and formerly incarcerated citizens.

The Re-Entry Assessment Planning (RAP) Team membership continues to grow.   From the beginning, representatives from mental health agencies, veterans affairs, public safety, child support enforcement, probation and parole, Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and Hampton/Newport News Criminal Justice Agency have been present.  This collaboration of community partners has proven to be effective in providing services and identifying resources within the community.  The group continues to staff approximately six cases. The clients receiving service can be incarcerated or living in the community.  Some indicators of success are increased employment, employment retention, and payment of fines, which has led to one individual being successful in getting a restricted driver’s license. Despite challenges that impede effective re-entry strategies, the RAP Team is evidence of what can be accomplished through collaborative partnerships.