The Lincoln Police Department is proud to have been included in the development and implementation of a program, such as this, that can improve the quality of life for residents of our jurisdiction. 

This program aligns with the Department’s mission statement; a promise to “obtain a higher quality of life for our citizens through teamwork, communication, transparency and reducing crime.”

Working with the other leadership team and community members has been an opportunity to put the Department’s vision statement into action; “to safeguard, be involved and establish respect within our community.”

While it is, and always will be, our job to address criminal behavior, we now have a tool to address the root cause of that behavior. This is not a soft on crime approach. This program offers a logical pathway to reduce future crime by offering those that substance use disorder, mental illness and homelessness has affected a realistic chance at change, and success.

By partnering with these service providers, law enforcement is free to do what we are here for. Connecting a person with services before they participate in criminal behavior can alleviate repeated calls for service, heavy dockets and potential incarceration. That is what deflection is designed to do, and why I believe it will improve safety in Lincoln, as well as the other participating communities.

Chief Joseph Meister

Why Deflection

1. Officers spot someone who needs help
2. That person is connected to a specialist
3. Specialist offers individualized support
4. People get support for today AND tommorrow

What is Deflection

Instead of sending people to jail, Deflection

connects them to help:

1. Help with drugs
2. Assistance with mental health
3. Help finding a job

How to get involved

1. Spread awareness, share resources
2. Encourage your community
3. Volunteer to join our efforts
4. Advocate in support of Deflection