COURT-ASSISTED RE-ENTRY PROGRAM (CARE)

The Court-Assisted Re-Entry Program (CARE) began in 2009 at the direction of United States District Court Judge Yvette Kane. CARE programs operate in the Scranton, Harrisburg, and Williamsport Courthouses. The program is designed to assist Moderate and High-Risk offenders in making a successful return to society. As a participant in the CARE program, offenders meet with the “CARE Team” once per month to discuss the successes and difficulties they experience during their re-integration. Participants also work through a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy program (conducted by Probation Officers) and may be assigned a mentor from the community.

The CARE program involves four “phases” and can be completed in as little as two years. Progression through the phases is outcome driven and highly motivated participants complete the program more quickly that others. Participants who successfully complete all four phases are eligible for a 33% reduction in their term of supervised release.

The CARE Team in Scranton is led by Chief United States Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick, in Harrisburg the team is led by Judge Yvette Kane, and in Williamsport the team is led by United States Magistrate Judge William Arbuckle. The CARE program is overseen by Supervisory Probation Officer Kevin Hogan. The monthly sessions normally occur on Tuesday or Wednesday night and last approximately 60 minutes. Family members of the participants are encouraged to attend.