Diversion and Alternatives to Arrest: A Qualitative Understanding of Police and Substance Users’ Perspective

Diversion to treatment is not a new concept in the criminal justice system. Successful strategies require the participation of both law enforcement officers and individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD). This study relies on interviews and focus groups to explore the perceptions and attitudes of these two different populations about non-arrest programs. From the police perspective, the study found that the biggest barrier to using alternatives is the police culture, while championship by leadership and collaborations with community stakeholders facilitate opportunities for using non-arrest options. Clients with SUDs had positive attitudes about non-arrest programs, but negative perspectives about the justice system and the police overall. Policy implications for future efforts are highlighted, particularly as efforts increase to expand the use of non-arrest options including diversion programs.

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