Bucks Co. Law Enforcement Partner With Aldie Counseling Center

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Several area law enforcement agencies are partnering with a local counseling center in an effort to help those with substance use disorders.

The Plumstead Township Police Department, Central Bucks Regional Police Department, Buckingham Township Police Department and Doylestown Township Police Department are teaming up with Aldie Counseling Center in Doylestown to implement the Supporting Treatment and Recovery Program (S.T.A.R.). With support from the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission and the Bucks County District Attorney's Office, the program aims to help those dealing with drug addiction and their families buy providing a pathway to outreach, information and treatment.

Officers will begin providing contact information for the counseling center to those who they come in contact with and believe may benefit from outreach, including cases of opioid or other controlled substance overdoses and those arrested for possession or DUI.

“This STAR program is further proactive proof of our police commitment to the health and well-being of the people they serve," District Attorney Matt Weintraub said in a news release. "I commend Plumstead Township Police Department, Central Bucks Regional Police Department, Buckingham Township Police Department and Doylestown Township Police Department for their commitment to this progressive addition to the countywide BPAIR Program. They certainly will save lives.”

A consent form will be completed on scene, giving officers the ability to forward the person's contact information to the Aldie Counseling Center. Within 24 hours, a trained outreach worker will make contact with the person and offer treatment information. All of the information is kept confidential.

“BCDAC, Inc. recognizes that, especially during COVID-19, residents are in need of support for a variety of concerns," Diane Rosati, Executive Director of the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission, said. "We are committed to reducing barriers to accessing treatment for substance use disorders. The STAR Program is a terrific example of law enforcement and social service partnership, to ensure rapid access to services. The STAR Program is a welcome addition to the Bucks Police Assisting In Recovery (BPAIR) initiative.”