Multnomah County DA Vasquez calls for accountability in drug deflection overhaul

The tightening of Multnomah County’s drug deflection program comes amid what District Attorney Nathan Vasquez describes as low participation — and an even lower level of accountability. Speaking on KGW’s "Straight Talk," Vasquez said many people referred to deflection were technically counted as “engaged” despite never entering or remaining in treatment, with only a small fraction completing what he considers meaningful services. Under the change, people caught with illegal drugs may face criminal charges if they fail to meaningfully engage in treatment, though Vasquez said the goal is not punishment. He said cases would typically be handled through conditional discharge and court supervision, which he described as another tool to push people toward treatment rather than jail.