Aurora is taking a different approach to low-level crime, aimed at tackling the root cause of some offenses. The Colorado city's Wellness Court focuses on defendants whose criminal behavior is affected by mental illness, addiction, or homelessness - pairing accountability with treatment and support.

Aurora Municipal Court CBS

City leaders say the program will increase long-term public safety, reduce recidivism, and lower the costs of incarceration and hospitalization by helping participants achieve stability, self-sufficiency, and sobriety.

Many of these offenders have hit rock bottom. Jason Pezdirtz's story began after losing his parents in 2017.

"It was depression and then everything else. I lost my job. I was drinking, ended up going into drugs after that. And it just got worse an

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