The Queensland government is reversing a previous decision to expand a drug diversion program, despite its success in reducing criminal charges for drug possession. The program, which offers individuals caught with drugs for personal use the opportunity to avoid prosecution through treatment and assessment, will be scaled back. This move is expected to lead to more people being incarcerated for drug offenses.
The number of Queensland ers avoiding prosecution for drug possession under the Police Drug Diversion Program more than tripled after the former Labor government broadened its scope. Previously limited to small amounts of cannabis, the program now includes other illicit substances like heroin, cocaine, and ice. This expansion coincided with increased police wanding operations, which detect more people with drugs than knives, particularly in Brisbane entertainment areas.
Despite support from police and health organizations, the Queensland government plans to scale back the program. Individuals caught with drugs for personal use receive three chances before facing criminal charges. They start with an official warning, followed by an agreement to attend an assessment program and seek treatment. Queensland Police Service data shows that in the six months since the program's scope widened, 9,057 people were diverted from the criminal justice system. Police previously welcomed the changes, stating it allowed officers to focus on serious crimes while promoting positive health practices. However, the current government, led by Crisafulli, is reviewing legislation to revise Labor's approach to drug offenses, emphasizing that they will not condone illicit drug use. This reversal is likely to result in more people being held in custody or jailed for drug possession, exacerbating the already overcrowded state prison system. This change comes as the government extends current youth detention capacity measures until the end of 2025 to alleviate overcrowding issues. They are also promoting their 'adult crime, adult time' policy
Queensland Drug Diversion Program Labor Government Criminal Justice Overcrowding
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