In an effort to combat recidivism, reduce crime, and enhance public safety, Louisiana has implemented Re-Entry Courts. This multifaceted program combines the supervision of the courts and correctional system, the economic opportunity of Louisiana’s business community, and the guidance of mentors and social service organizations to reverse the effects of Louisiana’s high incarceration rates. The program is open to people serving a term of incarceration on non-violent offenses and some specifically permitted violent offenses. Those with previous or current sex offenses are not eligible.

Based on various tests and assessments, a determination is made as to whether someone is appropriate for, and has the most probability to benefit from the Re-Entry Court program. Once chosen to participate, the participant spends at least two years at the Louisiana State Penitentiary (LSP) where he or she receives intensive workforce development training, substance abuse therapy, educational resources, and vocational and rehabilitative training.

The Re-Entry program at LSP utilizes outside professional help along with Angola “mentors” sentenced to life imprisonment who work with Re-Entry participants to assist in their rehabilitation. Upon successful completion of the program, the participants will be placed on probation under intensive supervision and participate in a four-phase structured plan to best warrant success.

Click on the picture below to play the Reentry Program video.

Success Stories

Re-entry Court Staff

Fred T. Crifasi, Re-Entry Court Presiding Judge
(225) 389-4722
FCrifasi@19thjdc.org

Gail Ray, Re-Entry Court Deputy Presiding Judge

(225) 389-4731

Justin Bullard, Assistant District Attorney
(225)389-3400
Justin.bullard@ebrda.org

Margaret Lagattuta, Assistant Public Defender
(225)389-3150
mlagattuta@opdbr.org

Specialist Val Watts, Department of Probation and Parole
Phone: (225) 276-9786
Val.Watts@LA.GOV