Armstrong County follows Butler County in joining Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative
Armstrong County has implemented the Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative program, making it the 28th county in Pennsylvania to adopt this policy, according to a Thursday, Feb. 1, release.
The diversion initiative, also known as LETI, allows collaboration between the Office of the Attorney General, local district attorneys and drug and alcohol programs to train law enforcement officials to assist those struggling with substance abuse and refer them to treatment.
The program also serves as an incentive for those who are frequently charged for drug-related crimes. Should those individuals successfully complete treatment through a program referral, police could consider not filing charges against them.
“The LETI program also offers those resources in the criminal justice system as a result of their substance use disorder,” said Armstong’s District Attorney Katie Charlton. “This is a benefit to both law enforcement and the community, as it will lead to less criminal issues and sober, productive citizens. I am pleased to work with the Attorney General’s Office in bringing this program to Armstrong County.”
The announcement by Charlton comes just a few months after Butler County made a similar proclamation.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry announced Nov. 1 that Butler County was the 27th county to join the Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative.
“With the opioid epidemic killing 14 people a day in Pennsylvania, we need LETI in as many counties and towns as we possibly can,” Henry said in November.
She was joined by Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger and Butler City Police Chief Robert O’Neill among others.
She similarly applauded Armstrong County on Thursday.
“By connecting individuals to the treatment they need, LETI saves lives, makes our communities stronger, and helps to minimize the stigma associated with substance use disorder,” Henry said Thursday.
