There’s no shortage of innovative methods states have explored to divert offenders away from jail and toward treatment-based solutions, whether it be through deferred prosecution, veterans’ courts or, most commonly, diversion through drug courts.

While these programs give discretion to prosecutors, judges and social workers, the role of police is all too often either underappreciated or even ignored. Police, who are the first line in the criminal-justice system, are best suited to evaluate risk on the street and do what they do best: protect and serve.