LEADD gives Deputies an option to refer a community member to long-term harm reduction-based case management in lieu of arrest for lower-level offenses that stem from mental illness, substance use, and poverty/homelessness.
LEADD can be an opportunity for individuals to get their underlying needs met in the community, and lead to reduced low-level criminal offenses at your business over time.
For instance, someone may be stealing items because they are hungry, or they may be trespassing or panhandling to obtain money to self-medicate because they do not have access to mental health resources for a past trauma or current mental illness.
How can LEADD help individuals and our community at large?
LEADD Case Managers may help individuals with some of the following underlying unmet needs:
- Safe Housing
- Employment and education
- Behavioral health treatment
- Overdose response kits
- Legal resources
- Transportation
- ID and licensure assistance
- Medical care
Case managers work intensively with clients, often long-term, to provide resources and prevent future interaction with the criminal legal system. Positive outcomes benefit the individual, businesses, and the community.
How Does LEADD Benefit Business Owners?
LEADD reduces community harm by providing resources and support to individuals at risk of engaging with low-level crime.
If you are the victim of a low-level, non-violent crime, you can ask for diversion to Washtenaw LEADD or request an arrest/citation. Diversion can help change someone’s path for the better by connecting them to services
Can I Make a LEADD Referral?
Due to current capacity, LEADD is unable to accept community referrals at this time; however, if a low-level offense, such as retail fraud or trespassing, occurs at your business, you can request that a Deputy make a LEADD referral in lieu of arrest, citation, or potential criminal charges.
When a LEADD referral is made, and if the individual consents, a LEADD Case Manager will meet the potential LEADD referral at the scene to address any immediate needs before working toward long-term, individualized goals.