first responder diversion

The Law Enforcement/First Responder Diversion and Referral Mentoring Initiative provides communities interested in starting diversion or referral programs the opportunity to learn from established or innovative programs that have shown success in meeting the treatment needs of individuals with a substance use disorder, and in some cases an overdose. Eight sites have been chosen to act as mentors for newer programs that are trying to establish a first responder diversion program.

The Law Enforcement/First Responder Diversion and Referral Mentoring Initiative provides communities interested in starting diversion or referral programs the opportunity to learn from established or innovative programs that have shown success in meeting the treatment needs of individuals with a substance use disorder, and in some cases an overdose. Eight sites have been chosen to act as mentors for newer programs that are trying to establish a first responder diversion program.

CHJ and St. Joseph County connected during FY20 Grantee profile outreach and an introductory call was scheduled.

CHJ and Cass County connected during FY20 Grantee profile outreach and an introductory call was scheduled.

Grantee contacted CHJ after outreach for completing the FY20 COSSAP Grantee profile. Introductory meeting scheduled for 2/16 to discuss grantee's grant plan and present CHJ TTA services

Grantee contacted BJA and on 2/26 CHJ received email from our policy advisor regarding a request received by Elizabeth White: "has reached out to me with questions concerning sources of foundation funding and general advice on implementing LEAD programs." CHJ reached out to grantee and scheduled a call for 3/3.

Lieutenant Herring asked for resources to compare their coordinator position responsibilities and pay to comparable positions throughout the Country

On 4.26.21, Kendra wanted to discuss some program specific challenges and learn about or connect with other sites who are experiencing similar issues. Kendra identified challenges with participant engagement rate. She felt that this has been affected by how misdemeanor level offenses are handled in Cheyenne and Laramie County, as such changes are impacting the incentives for diversion. Another challenge that Kendra is facing is operating a diversion program in a county that is primarily suburban/rural mix.

Grantee contacted AHP regarding resources for the new State’s Attorney who is a former defense attorney that wants to start this LEAD type program. AHP asked CHJ to assist in the TA to provide further resources on first responder diversion.