Law Enforcement
Partnering with Law Enforcement to Support Recovery and Healing
We support law enforcement with reliable pathways to treatment that address substance use at its root, helping reduce repeat calls, improve outcomes and promote safer communities.
Responding to Substance Use Crises
Supporting Law Enforcement in Substance Use Crisis Response
Law enforcement officers are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing substance use crises. Responding to repeated calls for service, managing high-risk situations and balancing public safety with compassionate care can strain officers and resources.
BHG partners with police departments, sheriff’s offices, first responders and crisis response teams to provide immediate, evidence-based alternatives to incarceration for individuals with substance use disorders. Effective addiction treatment programs reduce repeat calls for service, enhance officer safety and strengthen public safety—helping law enforcement achieve better outcomes while addressing the root causes of substance use.
Click Play to Watch the Video – BHG and Criminal Justice Partners
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Why Justice Partners Work with BHG
Streamlined Referral and Support
BHG provides clear, efficient referral pathways and ongoing collaboration with law enforcement, making it easier to connect individuals to evidence-based treatment without adding administrative burden.
Reduced Repeat Encounters
With 97% of patients reporting no new arrests during their first year in treatment, BHG helps officers focus on community safety.
Community Impact
By addressing addiction as a health condition, law enforcement can reduce recidivism and build trust in the community.
How we support Law Enforcement Agencies
Our diversion-to-treatment pathways help reduce jail overcrowding, repeat 911 calls and strain on public safety systems.
Individuals in Crisis
Immediate referral pathways after overdoses, public intoxication, or substance-related calls.
Low-Level Offenders
Diversion-to-treatment programs that reduce jail bookings and ease overcrowding.
High-Risk Community Members
Intensive support for individuals with frequent justice involvement, co-occurring mental health conditions or repeat arrests.
Pathway to Recovery
MOUD, counseling and case management provide long-term stabilization and reduce future incidents.
Training & Resources for Officers
BHG provides resources, along with on-site and virtual training, to help law enforcement better understand and respond to substance use disorders, including:
- Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD): Education on methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone, including how these treatments reduce overdose risk and support long-term recovery.
- Addiction Science and Recovery Principles: Understanding the chronic nature of SUD/OUD, triggers and evidence-based approaches to care.
- Diversion and Crisis Intervention Protocols: How treatment-focused alternatives can support individuals while reducing justice system involvement.
- Referral Pathways: Guidance on when and how to connect individuals directly to BHG for timely treatment.
- Reducing Stigma and Strengthening Community Relationships: Strategies to promote empathy, improve officer-community interactions and encourage engagement in treatment.
Data Driven Results
Our work with patients who have prior criminal justice involvement has shown measurable results:
of patients had no repeat arrests during their first year in care
reported decreased substance use after starting treatment
Patients report reduced repeat 911 calls and ER transports, lowering strain on public safety and healthcare systems
Frequently Asked Questions for Law Enforcement
What is a law enforcement diversion program?
A diversion program allows law enforcement officers to refer individuals struggling with substance use disorders directly to treatment instead of arrest. These programs reduce recidivism, prevent unnecessary incarceration and connect people with evidence-based care that supports long-term recovery.
How does BHG support police officers in the field?
BHG provides patient education materials, clear referral pathways and immediate access to treatment centers for officers responding to substance-related incidents. This equips law enforcement with the tools to handle crises safely, connect individuals to care and support community health.
What impact do law enforcement partnerships have on public safety?
Partnering with BHG allows officers to divert individuals into treatment rather than the justice system, reducing repeat arrests, lowering 911 call volume and fostering safer, healthier communities. These collaborations improve overall public safety while addressing the root causes of substance use disorders.
How can diversion programs improve officer efficiency and community relations?
Diversion programs save officers time by reducing repeat encounters with individuals struggling with addiction. They also strengthen community trust by demonstrating a focus on rehabilitation and support rather than solely punitive measures.