Change is happening within law-enforcement departments all over the country. Many jurisdictions recognize that there is a need to help marginalized individuals who cycle in and out of the legal system due to mental health issues, substance abuse, or lack of resources. The Kane County State’s Attorney’s office has developed a Pre-Arrest Diversion initiative in order to help individuals living within Kane County. Tuesday, July 26, the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) will be host to a community forum, presented by Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser, with an opportunity for observers to learn more about the program and its impact on residents.
The Kane County State’s Attorney’s office Pre-Arrest Diversion (PAD) seeks to improve public safety and public health by diverting non-violent offenders away from the criminal legal system. PAD case managers focus on reorienting the government’s response to health-related problems and improving the public safety of community members. With these actions, the intention is to undo racial disparity on the front lines, reduce the number of low-level criminal arrests, and strengthen the relationship with law enforcement.
PAD is based on the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) model. LEAD has been successfully operating in Seattle since 2011, and has delivered a 58% reduction in repeat offences while connecting participants to community-based services to help them achieve their goals.
LEAD operates in 65 jurisdictions across the country. “The LEAD National Support Bureau will be at the Library event to answer any questions, along with Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain,” said Pre-Arrest Diversion coordinator, Martha Paschke. “We want to spread the word so the community is aware that this initiative exists to help people get a second chance,” she said.
This community forum will be of special interest to engaged community members and those who have loved ones who repeatedly engage with law enforcement due to substance use, mental illness, or lack of resources. Attendees will learn the community’s role in supporting this program and how law enforcement officials will refer eligible individuals to available services, instead of placing them under arrest.
This event will be held in-person at the Santori Library’s Atrium and broadcast virtually through Zoom and Facebook Live Tuesday, July 26, at 5:30 p.m.. Visit the Library’s website www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events for the Zoom link or http://saopublic.co.kane.il.us/LEAD for more information from the Kane County State’s Attorney’s office.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.