Police Department
Reference: Arapahoe House Detox Centers
To: Mayor Richard N. McLean and Members of City Council
Through: Clint Blackhurst, City Manager
Prepared By: Paul Southard, Chief of Police
Date Prepared: February 21, 2017
PURPOSE
To advise City Council of the status of detoxification services provided by Arapahoe House treatment centers.
BACKGROUND
For many years the Brighton Police Department has utilized the Arapahoe House detoxification center in Commerce City. The center provides detox withdrawal services for DUI arrestees and those whose level of intoxication may make them a danger to themselves (welfare placement). Such protective custody is allowed by CRS 27-81-111.
In December 2016 Arapahoe House notified stakeholders in Arapahoe, Adams and Jefferson counties of a meeting to discuss their inability to sustain the current funding model and to introduce a model allowing the centers to stay open until June 30th, 2017.
At the December 20th, 2016 stakeholder meeting Arapahoe House announced they would no longer provide withdrawal management services (detox) in an effort to concentrate on treatment and rehabilitation services. Despite a cost of $1.25 Million they hoped to provide detox services until June 30th. However, they could not guarantee the time frame.
An unexpected closure of the detox centers before June 30th would leave the Brighton Police Department and other police departments in the affected area without services. On January 26th Adams County Sheriff Mike McIntosh advised the Adams County Chiefs he would make space available at the jail for detox services. These services would be managed by the Community Reach Center.
CONCLUSIONS
As of this time a permanent solution has not been reached. Discussions will be ongoing.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Unknown at this time
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
This is information only.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
N/A
ATTACHMENTS
Stakeholder letter from Arapahoe House.