Drug Diversion & Treatment Program

DDTP Coordinator Maria Sotolongo and DDTP graduate Pedro Rodriguez

The Northwestern District Attorney’s Drug Diversion and Treatment Program (DDTP) is designed for non-violent offenders with substance abuse issues who are charged with certain drug-related offenses.

This voluntary program seeks to reduce drug abuse and improve public safety by offering evaluation, treatment and intensive case management.

It provides eligible candidates with the opportunity to receive comprehensive substance abuse treatment services in lieu of prosecution through the traditional court process.

Completing the diversion program requires full participation in an individualized treatment plan with case management for a period of at least six months. Eligible persons must sign a contract acknowledging responsibility for their behavior and agree to voluntarily participate in all aspects of the program.

Photo is of DDTP Director Maria Sotolongo and DDTP graduate Pedro Rodriguez


DDTP brochure


In June 2023, the Urban Institute published a case study of the Drug Diversion and Treatment Program for use as a guide for other prosecutor’s offices that are interested in implementing similar programs in their jurisdictions:

https://www.urban.org/research/publication/drug-diversion-and-treatment-program-northwestern-district-attorneys-office

For more information, contact the DDTP Program Director at (413) 586-9225

DDTP graduate Tom Miklovich has written a Daily Hampshire Gazette column about his experience with the DDTP. You can see and hear him talking about his experience with the program HERE or below.

In collaboration with:
Clinical and Support Options Center for Human Development
Hampshire HOPE Opioid Task Force of Franklin County &
North Quabbin Region Massachusetts Trial Court MA Department of Public Health
This program is jointly funded by the Office of Northwestern District Attorney and the Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.

 

Tom Miklovich talks about his experience with DDTP