Police Union Raises Major Concerns Over Seattle’s Drug Diversion Program

Seattle’s LEAD drug diversion program is facing renewed scrutiny after a Washington Policy Center analysis raised questions about the program’s reported results. Seattle Police Guild President Kent Loux says officers have concerns about diverting people accused of drug-related crimes without sufficient leverage to ensure they complete treatment or other programs. Loux argues that treatment can play an important role, but questions whether the current approach provides enough accountability. The debate also carries implications beyond Seattle and King County, with the LEAD model replicated in more than 20 other states and local jurisdictions. Meanwhile, the program costs nearly $11,000 per participant annually based on the most recent figures cited in the segment, raising additional questions about taxpayer spending and whether officials should conduct a closer review. Watch for the latest on Seattle public safety, drug policy and government accountability from Washington in Focus Daily. #Seattle #SeattleCrime #SeattlePolice #PublicSafety #LEADProgram #DrugCrisis #DrugPolicy #SeattleNews #WashingtonState #WashingtonNews #WashingtonPolitics #KingCounty #TaxpayerMoney #GovernmentAccountability #CrimePolicy #Police #SeattlePolitics #WashingtonInFocus #CenterSquare