A qualitative analysis of philosophical and operational tensions in police diversion and deflection work

Diversion and deflection programs steer individuals away from involvement in the criminal legal system before arrest or sentencing. With multiple diversion models in practice across the U.S. understanding key frameworks of these programs is important. Although a wealth of research provides overviews of diversion programs, empirical research highlighting the key tensions that emerge in current police diversion efforts is lacking. This study involved 36 interviews with leaders in the U.S. police diversion and deflection landscape. After extensive analysis, nine key themes emerged regarding the critical tensions present in these initiatives. Findings addressed two overarching domains of program philosophical tensions and operational tensions. Philosophical tensions included unclear distinctions between deflection and diversion, the merging of public health and public safety philosophies, the rise of co-responder approaches, employing harm reduction approaches versus relying on treatment compliance, and varying levels of community engagement within diversion programs. Four themes surrounding operational tensions highlighted police and non-police referral pathways, varying eligibility requirements, differences in program voluntariness versus treatment coercion, and the extent of law enforcement involvement in providing resources. Findings can inform current diversion practices, policy development, and future research examining alternatives to incarceration.