Virginia Expands Competency Restoration Into Local Jails To Reduce State Psychiatric Hospital Demand

Virginia is expanding competency restoration into local jails to reduce demand for forensic beds at state psychiatric hospitals and allow eligible defendants to begin court-ordered treatment without waiting for hospital placement. On August 17, 2026, the Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office (VBSO) and City of Virginia Beach Department of Human Services (DHS) launched a jail-based competency restoration program at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center (VBCC). The program is funded through a $1.8 million, two-year grant from the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS).

Previously, Virginia Beach defendants ordered to receive inpatient competency restoration . . .