Marion County redirects hospital arrests into Quality of Life diversion program
Marion County public defenders and prosecutors are channeling people arrested at local hospitals into the Quality of Life diversion program instead of jail.
After a Mirror Indy investigation highlighted frequent arrests at Indianapolis hospitals, Marion County’s public defender and prosecutor offices are using the Quality of Life diversion program to keep arrested individuals out of jail. The program, launched in 2021, allows participants charged with misdemeanors such as disorderly conduct, resisting law enforcement or trespassing to have charges dropped after meeting treatment or housing requirements, while battery charges may need victim consent.
Eligibility is determined by factors like prior record and personal circumstances. Hospital police at Eskenazi Health, IU Health, Ascension St. Vincent and Community Health Network have been arresting people roughly every two to three days, often for behavior tied to mental health or substance use. The county sheriff’s office supports the diversion effort, and public defenders have begun tracking hospital arrests independently. Hospital officials say police are needed for safety, but none of the facilities track arrest outcomes, and body-camera policies vary.
Why it matters
Diverting low-level hospital arrests to treatment can reduce jail costs and improve outcomes for people with mental health or substance-use issues.
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