Aberdeen police are now able to connect low-level offenders and others in the community struggling with homelessness, mental illness and substance abuse with resources through a new initiative that “offers hope, not handcuffs.”

The initiative, through the department’s Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion Program, grants officers the ability to refer individuals to case managers and social services rather than taking them to jail.

Since its inception in 2024, Aberdeen police have identified 47 homeless individuals in Aberdeen; placed five individuals in permanent housing; connected eight more with temporary housing; and made 27 referrals to the LEAD program. Of the individuals referred to LEAD,  23 are participating in the program. The police have partnered with the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Medical Center and the Klein Family Center,

“Not every situation calls for an arrest,” said Lt. Douglas Reitz, who heads the department’s LEAD efforts. “Sometimes what someone needs is a hand up, not a handcuff. That’s what LEAD is all about.”

Through the program, case manager Monique Burgess does ride-alongs with responding officers where she is able to meet individuals in parks or on the street and connect them with resources.

According to police, officers were able to use the program to help a family new to Aberdeen by connecting them with mental health services and enrolling their children in school. Officials said the department was also able to help a family experiencing homelessness by connecting them to affordable housing while the family waited for disability benefits.

“The Aberdeen Police Department believes that effective policing means protecting public safety and investing in people,” read a news release from the department. “By addressing the root causes of homelessness and addiction, APD is proving that community-based solutions can work, and they’re working right here in Aberdeen.”

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