Marathon County DA outlines expansion and cost-benefit of deflection and diversion programs

District Attorney Ruth Heinzel presented a comprehensive update on Marathon County's deflection and diversion work, outlining staffing, funding sources, program models, expansion plans and measured outcomes.

Heinzel introduced her team: lead deflection specialist Dana Bittner, who works with law enforcement to connect people with substance use or mental health challenges to treatment and supports; diversion specialist Nikki Delatolas, who helps prosecutors design diversion offers; and a new deflection assistant focused on data entry and program support. Heinzel said the county's deflection work began about two years ago and has been supported by federal and state grant programs.

Funding: Heinzel said Dana's position moved from COSEP grant funding into state JAG funding on Oct. 1; the office also secured two COSEP grants (one focused on the Wausau metro area and a second on rural areas) that cover deflection…