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Arrest Referral: A Proactive Multi-agency Approach

NCJ Number
193631
Journal
Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy Volume: 8 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2001 Pages: 327-333
Author(s)
Caroline Seeling; Catherine King; Eleanor Metcalfe; Gillian Tober; Stan Bates
Date Published
November 2001
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper describes an interagency program in Leeds, England, to facilitate access to drug treatment for persons arrested for drug law offenses and presents results from the program’s first 10 months.
Abstract
This proactive program’s ultimate goal is to reduce drug-related harm and drug-related crime. The Leeds Arrest Referral Scheme is part of a multi-agency initiative. Three arrest referral addiction therapists work in six police divisions, have direct contact with arrestees, and can refer arrestees directly into detoxification and other drug and alcohol services in the city. Analysis of the 642 assessments that took place during the year ending in April 2000 revealed that 66.3 percent of the individuals seen were referred to drug treatment and that 34.7 percent attended their initial appointment. The Leeds program follows the recommendations of Great Britain’s Home Office and the guidelines of the Drug Prevention Advisory Service. The analysis concludes that the program’s success results from support from top management and the enthusiasm and cooperation of the agencies involved and also notes that the program will continue. Figures, table, and 15 references