SPOKANE, Wash. — Two months after the city’s 30-day CORE program, SPD has some new data to use in addressing some of downtown Spokane’s most pressing challenges.
The CORE Plan, was a month-long pilot program, initiated by Mayor Lisa brown, that took place this fall. It aimed to tackle downtown Spokane’s major issues through increased police presence, alternative response efforts and providing more housing resources to those experiencing homelessness.
Spokane Police Department’s Chief Kevin Hall shared the finding with Spokane City Hall on Monday and said the data compiled during CORE showed a small number of individuals are committing a large number of crimes.
Within the program’s 30 days, SPD made contact with 143 people, many of whom had previous encounters with the criminal justice system.
In total, those 143 people have been arrested over 2,000 times.
One of the goals of CORE is to connect people struggling with mental health and substance use with helpful treatment services. However, according to Chief Hall, of the 143 people offered services, only 13 accepted.
“Folks who are suffering from behavioral health issues, substance abuse issues, there’s always going to be a window of opportunity that’s generally really narrow and it’s catching them at the right time at the right place, where they will hopefully accept services,” said Chief Hall.
Chief Hall said it can be a slow process to get someone to accept help. He referenced one study that said, on average, it can take 60-70 engagements before someone accepts treatment.
He said the city needs to prioritize alternatives to jail and the emergency room for those struggling. Until then, he said SPD will continue to focus resources downtown.
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