The Taylorville Police Department is highlighting its work with the town’s Safe Passage Program.  Nearing six years of operation, Safe Passage helps those with an addiction to drugs or alcohol find treatment as opposed to facing incarceration.  This comes as the department also continues to address the issue of mental health locally.

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says Safe Passage continues to grow.  Meanwhile, the program and the Police Department are mourning the sudden loss of a Safe Passage driver.

Recovery programs take place at the First Presbyterian Church, but increased demand has led to the need for more space.

Mental health is a major factor as well when dealing with drug addiction.  When selecting treatment centers to use for the program, their ability to dual-diagnose can make the different in recovery efforts. 

Speaking of mental health, Chief Wheeler says these calls are on the rise again.  He calls for more resources and more treatment facilities for these instances. 

More information on the Taylorville Police Department is available at www.taylorville.net/police-dept and on their Facebook page.

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.