Wisconsin Deflection Initiative aims to keep people out of  the criminal justice system

Like many communities, Wisconsin is exploring innovative approaches to address the root causes of crime and support vulnerable individuals. The Wisconsin Deflection Initiative offers a proactive alternative to traditional criminal justice responses, focusing on providing support to those struggling with mental health or addiction issues before they become entangled in the legal system. The initiative, now operating in roughly 11 counties statewide, aims to divert individuals from the criminal justice system and connect them with vital resources. Eau Claire County launched its program in 2024, fueled by an opioid abatement grant and a partnership between the sheriff’s office, public health department, human services, and criminal justice services.

The core principle of the Wisconsin Deflection Initiative mirrors the approach used in school districts to identify “at-risk” students – those who might benefit from additional support. Instead of focusing on punishment, the initiative aims to intervene early and provide resources to foster stability and prevent involvement with law enforcement. As Brianna Marsden, recovery and justice service manager for the Eau Claire County Department of Human Services, explains, “Deflection, in its truest form, is really to try to be a preventative program that we can intervene when people are having difficulties in their lives before a major kind of event happens.” Eligibility for the Eau Claire County program requires applicants to be at least 18, county residents, have completed an assessment, agree to case management, and have no outstanding warrants or pending felony charges. The program prioritizes connecting individuals with substance use or mental health challenges to care and resources in low-level, non-violent situations, promoting healthier outcomes for individuals, families, and communities. Eau Claire County Recovery and Justice Services aims to address a critical need: the high number of individuals with addiction and mental health problems filling Wisconsin’s jails and prisons.

Currently, Eau Claire County’s deflection program serves approximately 30 individuals, with a total of 50-60 people assisted since its inception. Referrals often come from law enforcement responding to crises, offering an alternative to traditional legal intervention. “Law enforcement gets sent to many different calls throughout their day, and the vast majority aren’t criminal in nature,” Sheriff Dave Reiewestahl explained. “Whether it’s mental health, substance use, there’s a variety of reasons why we get called, and the hope is that we can pair that person up with somebody in peer support and a case manager, you know, walks alongside that person, so they don’t get involved in the criminal justice system.” Individuals can also apply directly or self-report online. To increase awareness, the county has launched a public awareness campaign featuring informational videos at Kwik Trip gas pumps, ads on city buses, and social media promotions. Kwik Trip is a regional convenience store chain with a strong presence in Wisconsin.

How the Program Works

The application process is designed to be accessible, with a call returned within 72 hours to gauge interest. A subsequent intake meeting involves signing an informed consent form and connecting participants with peer support specialists. These specialists, often individuals with lived experience of similar challenges, receive specialized training to serve as mentors. The program emphasizes case management to secure resources and peer support, offering free services regardless of insurance status. “It’s low-barrier, free services for individuals,” Marsden stated. “You don’t have to have Medicaid. You don’t have to have insurance. We’re not charging you for anything.”

The Power of Peer Support

Emily Nichols, certified recovery coach and operations manager for At the Roots LLC, a key partner in providing peer support services, highlights the significance of shared experience. “The provider often helps with practical things…like rides, setting up appointments, or completing paperwork,” Nichols said. The agency prioritizes matching participants with specialists who share similar backgrounds, fostering a sense of understanding and hope. Nichols emphasizes that peer support can be a less intimidating alternative to traditional systems, allowing individuals to seek help without feeling stigmatized. Her agency conducts brief screenings, focusing on basic engagement like answering phone calls, and works with individuals to define their recovery goals – which can range from processing trauma to securing housing and employment. At the Roots LLC provides certified peer support specialists and certified recovery coaches.

Beyond Emotional Support

The practical assistance provided by peer support specialists is a crucial component of the program’s success. This can include everything from securing transportation to appointments and completing paperwork to helping clients navigate complex social service systems and apply for benefits. Nichols notes that simply being heard and understood can be profoundly impactful for individuals who have often felt marginalized or ignored. She recounts stories of clients who have enrolled in technical schools, found employment, and begun attending recovery meetings – small steps that represent significant progress towards a more stable and fulfilling life.

Making a Difference

The impact of the deflection program extends beyond individual recovery. By addressing underlying issues like addiction and mental health, the program aims to reduce the strain on the criminal justice system and improve community well-being. Nichols notes that clients have achieved significant milestones, from enrolling in technical school to securing employment and attending recovery meetings. “We’ve extended people’s opportunity to survive and exist … you cannot put a price on that,” she said. The program’s success lies in its ability to provide a supportive environment, fostering a sense of belonging and offering practical assistance to overcome obstacles. The Eau Claire County program is part of a larger effort across the state, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for alternative approaches to addressing complex social issues.

A Path Forward for Families

The Wisconsin Deflection Initiative represents a vital shift in how we approach community safety and individual well-being. It’s easy to get caught up in reactive measures – locking people up after a crisis – but this program recognizes the profound value of prevention. The fact that law enforcement is actively involved, referring individuals to these services, speaks volumes about the growing understanding that many encounters with the justice system are rooted in untreated mental health and addiction issues. These are issues that often tear families apart, leaving children without stable homes and contributing to a cycle of poverty and despair. Strong, stable families are the bedrock of a thriving community, and initiatives like this offer a glimmer of hope for those struggling to stay afloat.

What’s particularly encouraging is the emphasis on peer support. The power of shared experience cannot be overstated; there’s a unique comfort and credibility that comes from someone who has walked a similar path. While the program’s success is evident in the individual stories of transformation, it's crucial to monitor its long-term impact on recidivism rates and overall community safety. Residents should engage with their local representatives to ensure continued funding and expansion of these vital programs, recognizing that investing in prevention is an investment in a stronger, healthier future for all.

Further Information

For those seeking more information or assistance, the following resources are available:

• Eau Claire County Recovery and Justice Services
• At the Roots LLC
• Kwik Trip
• Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Opioid Use Disorder
• Wisconsin State Government
• Eau Claire County Government
• Eau Claire Police Department
• Wisconsin Court System
• Wisconsin Supports You - Mental Health Resources
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

The Wisconsin Deflection Initiative offers a promising model for addressing the root causes of crime and promoting community well-being, demonstrating the power of proactive support and compassionate intervention.