Key Considerations for Pre-arrest Diversion Programs

Abstract

This chapter reviews the extant literature to identify empirically proven strategies that pre-arrest diversion (PAD) programs could employ to improve outcomes. PAD programs generally refer low-risk individuals who use drugs to community-based services and rehabilitation in lieu of formal entry into the criminal justice system. Preliminary data indicate that these programs can reduce incarceration rates, recidivism, and drug use, and that they result in cost savings relative to standard engagement in the criminal justice system. Although the early verdict is that these programs reduce public harm, existing programs often use arbitrary criteria for determining eligibility, making evaluation and replication unreliable. PAD programs may serve to improve both public health and public safety by utilizing empirically proven practices. Nevertheless, there are still many challenges to the development, implementation, and operations of PAD programs. Although preliminary data from these programs support their utility, continued research is necessary to identify what practices facilitate their short- and long-term success.