Brockton launches program to help addicts

BROCKTON, Mass. — The city of Brockton is launching a new program this week where addicts can walk into the police department and get help, no questions asked.

"If all we do is ever administer narcan, then we're failing," said Mayor Bill Carpenter.

Last year, there were more than 100 overdoses in the city, with narcan being used to save people. City officials decided they needed to do something more. It's the latest city to start a police-assisted outreach program, behind communities like Bridgewater and Gloucester.

"I'm passionate about it because I lived the life and too many people are dying," said Steve Reynare, a recovering addict from Brockton.

Brockton has an average of four overdoses a day. Under the new program, called the "Champion Plan," an addict can go to Brockton Police Department and volunteer to go into recovery. The city will help them through every step, from detox to recovery.

Addiction specialists said that process couldn't be more important.

"You go to the detox and then from the detox, you have to go to the program and usually there are not any programs right away. That waiting period is where you fall off the wagon," said Steven Jones.

There is a critical shortage of beds in state-run rehab programs, something, Gov. Baker has said he's working to address.

Mayor Carpenter admits the program is not perfect and they're still trying to figure out a way to make sure individuals with open warrants aren't using this program to avoid prosecution. However, he said it’s a step in the right direction.

Cox Media Group