St. Croix County is making strides in improving its criminal justice system with the introduction of a court navigation program aimed at assisting defendants during their initial court appearances. During a recent meeting of the Community Justice Collaborating Council on May 8, 2025, Phil provided an update on the program, which has been operational for three months. This initiative, led by Shelby Hilden, focuses on guiding defendants through the often daunting process of criminal intake.

The court navigators are present before intake sessions to help defendants understand their rights and options, including whether they have contacted the public defender's office or initiated paperwork for a court-appointed attorney. This support is crucial for individuals who may feel anxious or overwhelmed by the legal system. Feedback from participants has been positive, indicating that the presence of navigators has significantly eased the intake experience.

Looking ahead, the council is exploring potential partnerships with child support services to enhance the program further. Updates on this collaboration are expected in the coming months, reflecting the council's commitment to continuous improvement and community support.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted an upcoming Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) mapping exercise scheduled for June 17 and 18, 2025. This event, coordinated with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), aims to bring together community partners, law enforcement, and jail staff to identify and address overlaps in services and improve the overall effectiveness of the justice system.

These initiatives underscore St. Croix County's dedication to fostering a more supportive and navigable justice system for all community members. As the council continues to implement these programs, the focus remains on collaboration and enhancing the experience for those interacting with the legal system.