“revolutionary changes in the way we treat this DISEASE”

~ Jason Schwartz

428870_252832988160571_1423930274_nThis has already gotten a lot of attention, but it’s pretty great. I hope they are provided the resources to meaningfully assist people seeking help.

Police chief Leonard Campanello announced on the department’s Facebook page that, starting June 1, any addict who voluntarily brings in their stash won’t be arrested as long as they agree to get treatment, which they’ll get help paying for.

The department’s unconventional policy developed out of a recent city forum aimed at addressing the local opiate crisis, according to the post.

This year alone, four people have died from overdoses in the town that’s home to only about 30,000 people, Boston.com reported. Across the state, more than 1,000 people died last year from overdoses of heroin and other opioids, according to the Boston Globe.

Recognizing that addiction is a disease that requires treatment, not punishment, the Gloucester Police Department has vowed to provide anyone who approaches the force with on-the-spot help.

Addicts will immediately be assigned an “angel” who will help guide them through the process. And, Addison Gilbert Hospital and Lahey Hospital and Medical Center have partnered with the department to help fast track anyone who seeks rehabilitation byway of the police department.

This is a good example of vast array of options between drug warrior mass incarceration and legalization.

Published by Jason Schwartz

I have been an addiction professional and social worker since 1994. I started blogging in 2005 as the Clinical Director at Dawn Farm. I no longer work at Dawn Farm and am now the Director of Behavioral Medicine at a community hospital, and a lecturer at Eastern Michigan University’s School of Social Work. Views expressed here are my own. Keep in mind that the field, the contexts in which the field operates, and my views have changed over time.

2 thoughts on ““revolutionary changes in the way we treat this DISEASE””

  2. I like that new alternatives are being tried and it’s not the same business as usual. I’m curious to learn how many people are actually bringing in their stash though. I mean if I was an addict the police station would be the last place I’d go for help. But who knows? At least they’re trying.

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