Politics & Government
DA Early Focuses On Crime Prevention For 4th Term
While Early has been in office, Worcester has seen a 57 percent reduction in juvenile crime.
WORCESTER, MA- As district attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr. was sworn in for his fourth term in office, he said he plans to continue his focus on crime prevention.
Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito administered Early’s oath of office on Thursday afternoon at Jacob Hiatt Magnet Elementary School in Worcester. Early highlighted many of the office’s prevention programs that are presented to schools across Worcester County, including an anti-bullying and cyber safety program, an evidence-based program concerning opioids for middle school students “This Is (Not) About Drugs,” and a texting and driving program for high school juniors and seniors.
“One of the things I’m most proud of is that during my 12 years in office is that we’ve
had a 57 percent reduction in juvenile crime,” Early said after his swearing in. “That
happened by working together with all of our partners. I’m really looking forward to continuing
to work with all of our community partners over the next four years.”
The office also offers other educational programming to parents and senior centers focused on prescription medication safety and scams and frauds. While in office, Early has expanded the use of drug forfeiture funds for prevention efforts by putting the money seized from drug dealers back into the community in ways that support youth programming to keep busy around responsible adults and out of trouble.
Tackling the opioid issue is also on Early's list for his fourth term, with a task force that is now 400 members strong. Recently, the office received a grant to expand a drug diversion program offered in Leominster, Gardner and Winchendon to additional courts in Clinton, Fitchburg and Milford. This program is one of several diversion programs offered by the District Attorney’s office. It specifically helps those suffering from substance use disorder get the help they need while avoiding a criminal record that could hinder their ability to lead a productive life in recovery.
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Photo Credit: Office of District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr.
