Baker County set to launch deflection program for drug offenders

BAKER COUNTY — Baker County is set to introduce a new deflection program set to begin on September 1, designed to enhance community safety and aimed at steering individuals with substance use disorders away from incarceration and towards treatment.

This initiative follows the passage of House Bill 4002, which essentially repealed the controversial Measure 110 and reclassifies unlawful possession of a controlled substance as a misdemeanor and introduces a deflection option for individuals seeking treatment.

Under HB 4002, those arrested for possession of small amounts of hard drugs like fentanyl can choose to participate in treatment instead of facing criminal charges. Law enforcement will have the option to direct individuals to sobering centers, caseworkers, or other treatment facilities. The Oregon Legislature allocated approximately $211 million for treatment and addiction services and over $20 million for county deflection programs, with Baker County receiving $150,000.

The Baker County Deflection Work Group, which includes local law enforcement, the Baker County District Attorney’s Office, and New Directions Northwest, will oversee the program’s implementation. The program aims to integrate treatment with legal accountability to reduce recidivism and improve access to services.

“The deflection program represents a significant step forward in addressing substance use disorders by providing a path to recovery while ensuring accountability,” said Baker County Chair Shane Alderson. “This program highlights our commitment to improving community safety and supporting individuals in their recovery journey, while making sure they’re still held accountable for their actions.”

“Measure 110 was not effective, and while the success of the Deflection Program remains to be seen, it offers a more practical solution compared to past methods,” said Baker County District Attorney Greg Baxter. “If individuals refuse treatment, they will face the standard criminal justice process, which includes probation and potential jail time for non-compliance.”

Under the new program, individuals who decline treatment will go through the criminal justice process, potentially resulting in probation. Violations of probation could lead to 30 days in jail or 30 days of substance use disorder treatment, with further violations resulting in 180 days in jail and possible early release into treatment.

“Is deflection the answer? I don’t know, it remains to be seen. But it is better than what we were dealing with,” said Baxter.  “And that’s why Baker quickly jumped on board with this program.”

“We will be one of the only counties, maybe the only county in Oregon, to be ready with this program when the law takes effect September 1,” said Alderson. “That’s a testament to the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved with this.”

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