Behavioral Health Deflection

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Who is eligible for the Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program?

Individuals who are contacted by law enforcement for misdemeanor drug possession or low-level quality of live crimes may be eligible to be deflected.

The following crimes are deflection eligible:
* Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance
* Criminal Trespass 2
* Disorderly Conduct 2
* Theft 3 (With Victim Consent)
* Criminal Mischief 3 (With Victim Consent)
* Interfering with a Police Officer
* Use of a Controlled Substance on Public Transit or Trains
* Frequenting a Place Where Controlled Substance are Used
* Prostitution

Adults (18+) who agree to voluntary participation and reside in Lane County.

How many people are in Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program now?

A data dashboard with information about the program participants, including demographics and referring agencies, is available online. The dashboard is updated once per day if new information is available.

See the Deflection Dashboard.

What happens if someone fails the Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program?

If someone fails to complete or is removed from the Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program, the original charges that had been held in abeyance may be charged and the individual at that time could enter the criminal justice system.

What does a successful deflection look like?

A successful deflection could look different for each participant. The general measure of success is that the individual is participating in programs and treatment and is making measurable progress. Some may only need a short time in the program while other could take longer.

What and who are Peer Navigators?

Peer Navigators are individuals with lived experience who work with individuals in the Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program. They provide case management, connect participants to needed resources, and ensure a smooth transition into treatment and support services through warm hand-offs.

Lane County has partnered with Ideal Option who provides peer navigation services for the deflection program; and with the Reveille Foundation who provides emergency stabilization housing units.

How is the Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program funded?

The Lane County Behavioral Health Deflection Program was created with the passage of House Bill 4002 by the Oregon Legislature in the Spring of 2024. Along with the recriminalization of drug possession this bill also allocated money for the creation of Behavioral Health Deflection programs. Money was allocated for all 36 counties and each Tribe residing in Oregon to create deflection programs in their communities.

Clint Riley
Behavioral Health Deflection Program Manager

Questions? Contact [email protected] or
(541) 682-1472