SCDPPPS Announces First-Ever Mental Health Specialized Caseload Agents

The South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services (SCDPPPS) announces the hire of its first-ever Mental Health Specialized Caseload Agents. These four Agents will transition into their new positions- located in six counties- on January 4, 2022. “We are honored to provide this highly essential service,” said SCDPPPS Agency Director Jerry Adger, “that will assist in the management of offenders with behavioral health needs.” The SCDPPPS Mental Health Services Division utilizes evidence-based interventions and specialized strategies to supervise this unique population.

The SCDPPPS Mental Health Program consists of well-trained Agents supervising persons with mental illnesses. Agents will also focus on building strong rapport with their offenders and relationships with community partners. Supervision of this specialized caseload requires excellent communication and listening skills, the ability to develop creative solutions to complex issues and a desire to play an important role in the rehabilitation of individuals in the criminal justice system. Additionally, Agents will participate in the methodical work of investigations, law enforcement, and a variety of other duties.

The mission of the SCDPPPS Mental Health Program is to:

• Prepare offenders with mental illness to live a prosocial life free of involvement with the justice system by advocating for and monitoring stability;
• Provide evidence-based interventions that empower offenders with mental illness to establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle;
• Protect community safety through supportive supervision strategies, appropriate referrals to services and suitable responses to violations.

The six counties served by these particular Agents are: Clarendon, Sumter, Darlington, Florence, Spartanburg and Union. The division’s Mental Health Program Coordinator will assist the entire state by communicating between the SCDPPPS, South Carolina Department of Mental Health, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections to bridge gaps for offenders living with mental illness under supervision.

SCDPPPS Mission Statement:
To PREPARE offenders under our supervision toward becoming productive members of the community; To PROVIDE assistance to the victims of crimes, the courts and the Parole Board; and
To PROTECT public trust and safety.

Media Contact:
Anita Dantzler, SCDPPPS Public Information Director                                                                                                                                  803-734-9267 or Anita.Dantzler@ppp.sc.gov