Montco DA's Program Gives Non-Violent Drug Offenders A Chance

NORRISTOWN, PA — The Montgomery County District Attorney's Office has launched a new program that aims to rehabilitate young, low-level, non-violent drug offenders.

The Drug Education and Abuse Prevention Program (DEAP) is being launched with the assistant of the Upper Perk Police Department. It's modeled after a similar program launched earlier this year with the Lower Providence Police Department.

The program is a voluntary choice for 18 to 26-year-olds who are charged with minor possession crimes and who have never been arrested or convicted of crimes like underage drinking or theft.

"This program can save young people from the slippery slope of drug use and addiction, thereby protecting their futures," DA Kevin Steele said. "Fighting (the drug epidemic) requires innovative approaches on multiple fronts."

DEAP has four key steps for participants:

1. introductory meeting with local police, the DA's Office, and the Magisterial District Judge

2. drug and alcohol assessment and a presentation on addiction by former addicts and experts

3. presentation on medical consequences of addiction by Coroner's Office

4. observation sessions at Montgomery County District Court

The program will be in place for Upper Perk's district, which includes Green Lane, Marlborough, Red Hill, Pennsburg, East Greenville, Upper Hanover, and Hereford Township in Berks County.

Individuals who agree to participate are not arrested, so they will have no criminal record.

Photo via Renee Schiavone/ Patch