LEAD Program
The LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) Program is part of the North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition. It was first implemented in 2011 in Seattle, WA as a response to a growing call for a new approach to low-level offenses and diversion from the criminal justice system. This innovative approach uses a harm-reduction model that includes providing individuals with an alternative to incarceration with access to substance use treatment and other social services through case management. The Jacksonville Police Department established a LEAD program in November 2020, and partners with Onslow County EMS to provide case-management services to individuals through the COSSUP peer navigator program. Participants are linked to substance use treatment and recovery support services. In 2021, 80% of LEAD participants successfully completed the program and had their charges dismissed.