Crime in a big city is a multi-faceted problem. Besides violent crime, police must deal with those experiencing homelessness, mental health issues and substance abuse. Any time spent dealing with those problems means time they cannot spend working on violent crime issues or patrolling an area. Additionally, those non-violent crime problems are very likely to be chronic in nature, meaning unless the issue at the core is improved, even if someone goes to jail, when they are let out the problem just resurfaces again and it becomes a cycle.
To that end, Atlanta has a Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative that attempts to provide services for these types of issues rather than jail time and sending them back on their way – only to be arrested again later. Currently, this program operates on minimal facilities and resources but new legislation approved by the Atlanta City Council will allow for the creation of a Center for Diversion and Services operated by Grady Health System and housed in the city detention center, though separate from the existing detention facilities.
“I am excited to start this New Year with significant forward progress to realizing our vision of the Diversion Center,” said Mayor Dickens. “The Diversion Center embodies our commitment to treat people with non-violent and quality of life transgressions who are experiencing poverty, homelessness or substance use as neighbors who need our help rather than as criminals who should be punished. Grady is a trusted partner to operate the Diversion Center because of their deep community roots and because they share our belief that our people are best served when we prioritize treatment and prevention.”
The new Diversion Center will provide an alternative to arrest for minor and non-violent offenses. The center will offer behavioral health screenings and needs assessments, non-emergency medical care and addiction recovery services like referrals and transportation to off-site treatment and service organizations.
“Grady is the natural partner to operate the Diversion Center, having spent decades building trust with the people of this community,” said Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts. “The Diversion Center offers a new opportunity for Fulton County, the City of Atlanta and Grady to collaborate and serve together, as we have done for many years.”
It is expected Grady will begin services later this month for one year, with extensions possible for up to five years.
“At Grady, we are committed to expanding healthcare access for the people of Atlanta, and we’re thankful to be partnering with Mayor Dickens, the Atlanta City Council, and Chairman Pitts and Fulton County to address the growing challenges impacting our community,” said John Haupert, president and CEO of Grady. “The Diversion Center will allow us to provide these individuals with the quality care and resources necessary to improve their overall well-being.”
