MPD drug diversion program earns national grant

MADISON, Wis. - A Madison Police Department program, which diverts people who use drugs from the criminal justice system to treatment, has received a grant to continue its outreach efforts.

The Madison Area Recovery Initiative (MARI) was honored by Target and the U.S. Conference of Mayors with their Police Reform and Equitable Justice Grant.

The $100,000 grant is designed to recognize, strengthen and sustain policies and practices that police departments across the country are employing in pursuit of equitable treatment of people they have pledged to serve and protect. The grants are given to one large city, one mid-size city and one small city. Madison was the mid-size recipient.

"Together we are proud to elevate these innovative practices that enhance accountability, improve safety and strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the communities they serve," said Tom Cochran, the CEO and Executive Director of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

What is MARI?

The Madison Police Department believes in offering recovery rather than punishment. The MARI program is a diversion program that offers substance treatment to people in lieu of arrest.

To take part, referred people must undergo a clinical assessment and complete six months of individualized treatment and recovery coaching. Upon a successful MARI completion, criminal charges are "voided."

MPD has partnered with various organizations, including Dane County Human Services, Tellurian Behavioral Health, Safe Communities of Madison-Dane County, the University of Wisconsin and Penn State University to enhance the proactive approach of providing individuals with treatment and services.

"We know we cannot arrest our way out of the opioid epidemic. Recovery is a lifelong journey, and offering this option is a step toward growth and healing," said Lt. Lori Chalecki, who oversees the MARI program.

Since 2021, MPD officers have referred nearly 100 people to this program. About 68 percent of those people have successfully completed six months of treatment and peer support from our partners at Safe Communities.

The Madison Police Department cannot do this work without the help of Public Health Madison & Dane County, Dane County Department of Human Services, Safe Communities, the Madison Fire Department, Tellurian Behavioral Health and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute.

MPD recognizes stigmatizing language can impact those we serve. As such, Madison Area Addiction Recovery Initiative will henceforth be called Madison Area Recovery Initiative.

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