The choctaw nation of oklahoma is a federally recognized tribe located in southeastern oklahoma

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) awarded a $900,000 Project Grant under the Tribal Justice Assistance Program (CFDA 16.596) to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The purpose of this 5-year grant, effective October 1, 2024, is to implement the Outpatient Diversion Program, which will provide alternative sentencing options and support services to low-risk tribal offenders with substance use and/or mental health disorders within the Choctaw Nation Reservation. Key program activities include DUI schools, in-car breathalyzer installation and subscriptions, financial assistance for sober-living housing, and counseling vouchers. The grant aims to reduce recidivism rates, increase capacity to serve low-risk offenders, and provide treatment to at least 100 participants annually.

With this funding the tribe will implement the outpatient diversion program. The purpose of this program is to provide alternative sentencing options to low-risk offenders based on their individual charges and needs in the CNO reservation. Project activities include providing services to offenders with substance use and/or mental health disorders, including DUI schools, in-car breathalyzer installation and subscriptions, financial assistance for sober-living housing, and counselling vouchers. Expected outcomes include lower recidivism rates among tribal members, increased capacity to serve low-risk offenders in the CNO reservation, and at least 100 participants served a year and treated for substance use or mental health disorders. Tribal members and community members convicted of a low-risk crime and first offenders within the CNO reservation are the intended beneficiaries of the project.