WATCH: Jails, prisons as mental health facilities

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - We explore how mental health is increasingly part of the corrections and courts landscape in our latest “Hear me. See me.” podcast.

Shawnee Co., Kan. Corrections Director Brian Cole says jails and prisons have become our society’s de facto mental health treatment facilities. It led to the county breaking ground in August 2024 on a dedicated behavioral unit at the jail.

In this conversation, Cole shares how the increased need for mental health care impacts inmates who need help, staff who care for them, and victims waiting for justice.

He also explains why incorporating mental health services in corrections work is not letting people off easy.