Posted by Media Release

Today, the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a motion brought forward by Commissioner David Pepper that would increase treatment options for first-time DUI offenders while freeing up jail bed space.  The measure initiates action to designate the current Talbert House Reading Road facility as a minimum security correctional facility for the purpose of treating DUI offenders.

State law requires first-time, high-tier DUI offenders to serve 6 days in jail, where today there are no treatment options available.  Today’s measure would allow those offenders to serve their 6 day term at a secure Talbert House facility where they would receive the necessary treatment while not taking up space at the Justice Center.  This reform actually saves money for Hamilton County taxpayers.  Talbert House has agreed to pay for the cost of upgrading the facility to the Ohio Bureau of Adult Detention standards, and the program requires that DUI offenders pay for their stay and treatment at the facility.  (Today, taxpayers pay for the DUI offenders’ stays at the Justice Center.)

Commissioner David Pepper said “this is a common-sense change that frees up jail space, saves money, and improves the safety on our roads by getting needed treatment to first time DUI offenders.”

“This is a win-win situation for everyone,” said Talbert House President Neil Tilow.

This reform will free up to 3,000 county jail beds on an annual basis.

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