Many people struggling with addiction avoid reaching out for help because they fear the legal ramifications. This only leads to dangerous substance abuse and a higher risk for overdose deaths. Luckily, many states are recognizing this and taking measures to make finding help and treatment more accessible for addicts. New York launched the Angel Program that will help prevent overdoses and get addicts the treatment they need.
New York’s Angel Program
This Monday, Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell announced the D.A.’s office is launching a new program that will help addicts get treatment, rather than putting them in jail. The launch of Operation S.A.F.E.(Saving Addicts From Epidemic) in Broome County marks the first time a D.A.’s office has created such a program. It originally launched in Cooperstown last November.
Since the launch of Operation S.A.F.E. in Cooperstown, the city’s police department has been getting swarmed with calls for addicts seeking help. Both of these programs are part of Gloucester’s Angel Program, which launched in June of last year. This pilot program generated great success and help over 300 struggling addicts find treatment. Like the Angel Program, Operation S.A.F.E allows addicts can turn in their drugs to the police department and will receive help in finding treatment.
Since the County’s demand for addiction treatment is so high, he has partnered with over 150 treatment programs across the country, who are willing to take in patients through the program. Additionally, operation S.A.F.E will utilize funds from traffic diversion and drug forfeitures to cover the costs of treatment for uninsured patients, allowing them to receive treatment at little to no cost. They will not face any prosecution for seeking help.
Treatment at Morningside Recovery
Morningside Recovery is a premier dual diagnosis treatment center, specializing in treating patients who need drug addiction treatment and mental health treatment. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and seeking help, please don’t hesitate to call. You may reach us at 855- 631-2135. Our treatment specialists will answer any questions you may have and are will help you find the right treatment option for you.
