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Thursday, November 21, 2024

Wayne County judge honored nationally for mental health initiatives in justice system

State AG
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Justice Kyra H. Bolden | Michigan Supreme Court Website

Wayne County Probate Court Chief Judge Freddie G. Burton, Jr., has been recognized with the 2024 Treat Award for Excellence by the National College of Probate Judges (NCPJ). This award is presented annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to improving law or judicial administration in probate or related fields.

Chief Judge Burton is being acknowledged for his work in addressing mental illness within the criminal justice system. He notably established the Wayne County Probate Court Behavioral Health Unit (BHU), which uses assisted outpatient treatment to alleviate jail overcrowding and enhance care for individuals with severe mental illnesses.

Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement commended Chief Judge Burton, stating, “Helping hundreds of individuals get the treatment they need to stay in recovery and avoid incarceration, hospitalization, and homelessness exemplifies the value and impact of judicial leadership.”

The BHU was launched through a collaborative effort led by Chief Judge Burton involving regional stakeholders such as mental health service providers, government entities, hospitals, prosecutors, law enforcement, attorneys, and judges. This initiative has improved mental health service delivery to Wayne County residents while achieving cost savings without compromising public safety. The BHU also serves as a model for other courts and organizations, including the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Chief Judge Burton joins notable past recipients of the Treat Award like the late United States Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor (1983) and former State Court Administrator Emeritus Hon. Milton L. Mack, Jr. (2010). Both Judges Burton and Mack are the only recipients from Michigan since the award's inception in 1979. Additionally, Chief Judge Burton was recognized by Crain’s Detroit Business as one of its 2023 “Notable Leaders in Behavioral Health” for his efforts with the BHU.

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