Drug diversion schemes cut reoffending rates more than prosecution, study says
Summary
A study in England found that police-led drug diversion programs, which guide people towards treatment instead of court, reduce repeat offenses by about one third compared to prosecution. The research, covering over 62,000 cases in 13 police forces, suggests that expanding these programs could improve outcomes and reduce court pressure.Key Facts
- Police diversion schemes direct people caught with drugs to treatment and education, not just prosecution.
- People handled through diversion were one third less likely to offend again than those prosecuted.
- The study reviewed 62,000 incidents across 13 English police forces over four years.
- Some forces like Durham, West Midlands, and Thames Valley already use formal diversion programs.
- Despite evidence, many forces use diversion less than they could, with officers often choosing prosecution.
- Diversion programs also help reduce racial and social inequalities but challenges remain.
- Researchers recommend more leadership, training, and culture change for wider adoption.
- National police groups in England are working to encourage more forces to use diversion.
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