Atlanta Jail Diversion Program Resumes Services

The Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative (PAD) has resumed its services in Atlanta following the resolution of a contract dispute with Mayor Andre Dickens' office. After a months-long battle, a new two-year contract has been executed that includes two renewal options, allowing PAD to assist residents facing mental health issues, substance abuse, and poverty to avoid jail. Prior to the resolution, PAD had temporarily suspended its services, citing the expiration of its previous contract on December 31. The organization plans to expand staffing, enhance service hours, and launch a public awareness campaign encouraging residents to use the ATL311 hotline instead of 911. Furthermore, PAD is committed to transparency with the introduction of a public dashboard to track program metrics. This contract renewal comes amid ongoing concerns about overcrowding in Atlanta's jail system and the need for effective jail diversion strategies.