CLEAR is a collaborative effort from the Sussex County Prosecutor, Sussex County Police Chiefs’ Association, Newton Police Department, Center for Prevention and Counseling, Atlantic Health System and other social service agencies and is supported by the Sussex County Freeholders and municipal governing bodies across the County. Check out a new PSA to see a clear overview of the program- http://clearprogram.org/about/.
Our community, like the rest of our state and country, is in the midst of an opiate use epidemic. In 2016, the Sussex County area had 32 overdose deaths due to heroin, prescription medications and other drugs, up 28% since the previous year. Additionally, there were 52 overdoses where Narcan was used in an attempt to revive a person, an 18% increase in its use since 2015.
The mission of the Sussex County Community Law Enforcement Addiction Recovery (C.L.E.A.R.) Program is to form a collaborative network of professionals in our community who will facilitate medical intervention, improved access to treatment and recovery support for those struggling with drug addiction who seek assistance without fear of arrest or prosecution in order to make a positive difference in the quality of life for individuals, families and our entire community.
The Sussex County C.L.E.A.R. Program seeks to offer access to treatment and services for adults not currently in the criminal justice system and afford them the same opportunities for recovery by utilizing evidence-based practices and strategies. Since July 18, 2016, over 50 people have contacted C.L.E.A.R. for information or assistance, and 31 individuals and families have engaged in recovery coaching services with volunteer CCAR certified peer recovery coaches.
Those seeking assistance can come to the Newton Police Department between the hours of 8am and 5pm, Monday through Wednesday or they can call the toll-free number at –844-SC-CLEAR.