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Comprehensive Addiction Recovery and Education Program (C.A.R.E.)

Diversion program in Suffolk County, New York for those with criminal justice involvement and a substance use disorder that does not require a guilty plea for participation

The Comprehensive Addiction Recovery and Education Program (C.A.R.E.), a diversion program through the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, allows defendants suffering from substance use disorders to participate in the drug treatment program in exchange for dismissal of pending charges against them in Suffolk County.

The C.A.R.E. Program is open to defendants who have minimal or no criminal record and who have no history of violence or gang involvement. Defendants are eligible for the program if they are charged with a misdemeanor crime. Eligible defendants who opt to participate in the program sign a letter of understanding to receive drug treatment for 90 days. They are evaluated by the Suffolk County Drug Treatment Team to determine the appropriate treatment plan and rehabilitation services provided to them.

All services and treatment are provided by agencies certified by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS). Participants can also opt to receive treatment for longer than the 90-day period. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will have their cases dismissed and records sealed.

Incentivizing defendants to participate in treatment.

Continuum of Care
Treatment
Type of Evidence
Implemented
Response Approach
Comprehensive services
Diversion
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Evidence of Program Effectiveness

The program runs in addition to the Suffolk County Drug Treatment Court, in which eligible defendants suffering from substance abuse disorders are required to enter a plea of guilty in exchange for treatment. If the defendant successfully completes treatment, the charges will be reduced or dismissed depending on the plea agreement in the Drug Treatment Court contract. Failure to complete the requirements of the Drug Treatment Court typically results in a jail sentence. “The current drug treatment court model requires that the defendant plead guilty to the charged crimes prior to participation in the treatment court, which many in the defense bar claim is a significant impediment,” District Attorney Sini said. “C.A.R.E. removes that requirement with the objective of further incentivizing defendants to participate in treatment.”