The Community Outreach Addiction Team (COAT) hires individuals in opioid addiction recovery.
Their job is to encourage active users to seek treatment and provide a relatable point of reference for those reluctant to stop using.
This program is still experimental and currently only in place in Maryland, but if it proves to be effective in the fight against opioid abuse and drug-related crimes then others around the country are likely to establish similar platforms.
Read more here: http://www.wmdt.com/news/more-local-news/UPDATE-Opioid-outreach-program-could-alleviate-crime/38897486