LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The city is launching a program that's an innovative approach to addressing the opioid epidemic.
The pilot program is called LEAD, which stands for Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion.
When officers come in contact with someone suspected of committing low-level drug-related offenses, they will be able to give them the option of going to a treatment program run by Volunteers of America.
The program will focus on the Russell and Portland neighborhoods during the 18-month pilot program.
The $400,000 grant will help the first 50 eligible participants. .
The program launches Oct. 1.