Two States Look into Alternative Courts for Problem Gamblers

By Jerry Smith Staff Writer Updated: 02/10/2024

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Alternative Courts for Problem Gamblers

It has been reported that two states in the USA are looking at establishing alternative criminal courts specifically for problem gamblers. According to officials, there is a growing trend toward creating alternative court systems for individuals convicted of financial crimes linked to problem gambling.

This approach is already used in Ohio, Nevada, and New York, and it is now being considered in New Jersey and Washington. At present, new legislation is said to be under consideration in these two states. If approved, this could change the way in which non-violent crimes committed by those with gambling issues are dealt with across the two states.

According to PlayUSA, in Ohio, Nevada, and New York:

Some people convicted of certain financial crimes related to potential issues with problem gambling go from the traditional justice system to gambling treatment diversion courts. As a result, such people undergo mandatory and court-monitored treatment for gambling-related behavioral pathologies instead of being incarcerated.

The idea behind these courts is to provide those with gambling-related behavioral issues with access to specialist programs and treatment rather than doling out traditional punishments. The aim is to address the root cause of their criminal behavior as well as reduce the time and cost burden on the justice system, allowing it to focus more on traditional criminal activities.

A Number of Benefits Stemming from Diversion Courts

In New Jersey, the legislative effort is being led by Senator Nicholas P. Scutari, who introduced Bill S2272. In Washington, Representative Chris Stearns is leading the initiative with House Bill 2055.

If they are passed, these bills could offer a range of benefits to the states in question. Officials are keen to create diversion courts like those already operating in Ohio, Nevada, and New York. In these courts, those convicted of certain non-violent financial crimes, where gambling addiction is a factor, would undergo mandatory, court-monitored treatment instead of traditional imprisonment.

Representative Stearns recently spoke about his motivation for introducing the bill in Washington. He highlighted the dual benefits of reducing the chances of reoffending among non-violent offenders and achieving cost savings for the state.

Huge Savings Relating to Incarceration

The financial savings from avoiding incarceration could be huge, according to data. New Jersey’s projected expense for each state prisoner in 2024 is $66,000, and this does not include the legal costs incurred during the trial and sentencing phases.

In addition, Judge Cheryl Moss, who managed Nevada’s diversion court until 2020, estimated that this type of program in New Jersey could keep 50 people out of prison each year.

She said that this would mean savings of millions of dollars over several years. The ability to save the state money is likely to play a big part in getting support for the bills in both New Jersey and Washington.

People struggling with problem gambling could also benefit from the creation of these courts, giving them a choice to access rehabilitation and recovery services rather than incarceration. It is thought that their success could lead to similar initiatives in states across the country.