Diversion program celebrates first graduate

COEUR d’ALENE — A pilot program that gives police in North Idaho an option other than arrest when interacting with certain people struggling with addiction has reached a major milestone.

Idaho Law Enforcement Diversion (ILED) is a statewide coalition of local initiatives that divert low-level, nonviolent offenders into substance use treatment instead of arrest. The program is geared especially toward people who have little or no criminal history, for whom ILED could be an early intervention.

This week, organizers of North Idaho’s ILED program celebrated the first participant to complete the 12-month course since its inception in July 2022.

The man, who was not publicly named, completed nine weeks of intensive outpatient treatment for substance use disorder, followed by 43 weeks of outpatient treatment while passing weekly check-ins with a case manager.

“He was able to get his life back on track with the help of the treatment team,” said Brandi Clark, an addiction recovery coach at the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

Since ISP and the Rathdrum Police Department adopted the program, seven people have been referred for diversion. The small number of referrals is related to the program’s strict eligibility requirements, according to ISP.

Those committing violent crimes and crimes involving firearms are not eligible for ILED. Trafficking, possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and driving under the influence are ineligible offenses.

Participants must be adults who have no felony convictions within the past 10 years. They must not be on probation or parole. Sex offenders and individuals who are subject to a no contact order or civil protection order are not eligible. Referrals are voluntary.

“This program has given our troopers one extra option on patrol to provide to those in the throes of addiction who meet the qualifications for treatment,” said ISP Lt. Allen Ashby. “A widely shared view among our ranks has been that if this program can help save just one person, it will have been worth it.”

As more participants graduate from the program, organizers hope other Idaho agencies will join the effort.

Post-prosecution diversion may be possible in the future.

“We are working with our local judges to develop policies and procedures that will offer these same opportunities to those that make it to the courtroom before getting deferred to diversion in the initial law enforcement encounter,” Clark said. “We hope to expand the program and help people struggling with substance use disorder get the treatment they need while also becoming a contributing member of society once again.”