This week, the city of Eden Prairie is shedding light on an alternative approach to policing with the observance of National Deflection Week from July 20–26, highlighting the Eden Prairie Police Department's (EPPD) social worker program, an initiative that steers individuals towards treatment options rather than traditional law enforcement interventions, according to the City's recent press release.
The EPPD’s program in 2024, saw officers making 467 referrals to the department's social worker, the top reasons for these referrals included mental health issues, substance use disorders, economic struggles, and medical concerns, this comes at a time when the nation grapples with how best to handle incidents that may be better suited for healthcare professionals than police. The City of Eden Prairie has recognized this and has effectively incorporated social workers into its response team; in May, they added a second social worker to their force, augmenting this innovative program.
During National Deflection Week, the EPPD, along with other law enforcement agencies across the nation, strives to spotlight best practices in deflection, which is swiftly becoming a crucial piece in the puzzle of community policing, the aforementioned program has not only provided an alternative to incarceration but has connected those in need with critical support services in their time of crisis.
The role of EPPD's social workers, Caitlin Hurley and Molly Mitley, is multifaceted—they engage directly with residents, work alongside police to understand each situation uniquely, and help navigate the complex web of available resources toward better outcomes for individuals and the community at large, it's more than a mere referral, it's a lifeline that has been recognized nationally and serves as a testament to the far-reaching benefits of deflection over detention.
