It's been three months since Multnomah County kicked off its new deflection program, and the numbers are in—133 individuals have taken the first steps away from the criminal justice system and toward recovery, according to a news release from the county. From Sept. 1 to Nov. 30, the initiative has fielded 268 referrals, directing participants to substance use disorder treatment and providing essential supportive services.
Marc Harris, the Strategic Initiatives Manager for the Health Department, emphasized the effectiveness of the collaboration between law enforcement and service providers, stating, "People are initiating deflection, which keeps them out of the legal system and instead connects them to peer support, treatment, recovery, and other needed services," as noted by Multnomah County. Law enforcement redirected 205 individuals toward the program, and 133 committed to the process, receiving wraparound aid. Fluctuation remains with the number of diverted cases, signaling ongoing adaptation and a straightforward directive approach from both ends.
Key to the program’s strategy is the recently opened Coordinated Care Pathway Center, which specifically caters to those recommended by law enforcement, having already serviced 51 individuals since its inception on Oct. 14, as per the county’s report. This facility stands poised to extend its impact in the spring with a planned expansion of 13 sobering beds and transitioning to a 24/7 operation, potentially broadening its reach beyond current deflection pathways.
Steadfast in its mission to offer an alternate route for those struggling with addiction, the Portland Police Bureau, through Chief Bob Day, reasserted its commitment by proclaiming, "PPB understands that treatment is an effective solution and we remain committed to helping those suffering from addiction find a path forward while doing what’s in the best interest of our community and organization." Likewise, the County Health Department underscores the personal aspects of its efforts, with Addictions Services Manager Anthony Jordan asserting, "Our deflection program is about human connection. It is that connection that assists us in moving individuals towards a successful recovery journey" as detailed by Multnomah County.
