Hamilton County's Re-Entry Docket, also called the Welcome Home Program, has received certification from the Ohio Supreme Court. WLWT reported the recognition acknowledges efforts to help people transition from incarceration. The docket connects lower-level offenders with housing, employment and other resources intended to lower recidivism.
Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Wende Cross said accountability combined with support can reduce recidivism. She also said each person who avoids returning to custody means one fewer victim. The program has served 18 participants, according to the report. Organizers said most secured stable housing and employment after completing their sentences, while four participants did not finish. Officials said no graduates from the program's first class in 2023 have returned to custody.
Graduates described rebuilding their lives. Tara Curlis said her main success involved starting from little, finding full-time work and being able to assist others as she had before. Nino Morgan, another graduate, said the program helped shorten his sentence. He said obtaining a house so he could be present for his children and getting a driver's license were key achievements after years of wanting the license. Program leaders said the Supreme Court certification shows the docket's services are effective and could provide a model for similar programs across Ohio.