CA Penal Code Section 1001.85

(a)

The Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) pilot program is hereby established. The purpose of the LEAD program is to improve public safety and reduce recidivism by increasing the availability and use of social service resources while reducing costs to law enforcement agencies and courts stemming from repeated incarceration.

(b)

LEAD pilot programs shall be consistent with the following principles, implemented to address and reflect the priorities of the community in which the program exists:

(1)

Providing intensive case management services and an individually tailored intervention plan that acts as a blueprint for assisting LEAD participants.

(2)

Prioritizing temporary and permanent housing that includes individualized supportive services, without preconditions of drug or alcohol treatment or abstinence from drugs or alcohol.

(3)

Employing human and social service resources in coordination with law enforcement in a manner that improves individual outcomes and community safety, and promotes community wellness.

(4)

Participation in LEAD services shall be voluntary throughout the duration of the program and shall not require abstinence from drug or alcohol use as a condition of continued participation.