Dallas County District Attorney Susan Hawk says her office is starting a new diversion unit to steer some accused criminals with mental illness away from prison.
Hawk announced the plan at a town hall meeting Monday evening. It was her first public meeting since taking two months off to treat her own severe depression.
"Because I know first hand how an untreated illness can negatively impact your life. And I was blessed with the opportunity to treat my illness. But I believe that getting well is an opportunity everyone should have," Hawk said.
Hawk promised to hold more town halls every month to hear community concerns.
