Essex County Sheriff’s Department showcases national model for Opioid Treatment in Corrections
POSTED ON: SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 – 2:31PM
MIDDLETON, Mass. — Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger and the Essex County Sheriff’s Department (ECSD) recently welcomed correctional leaders and community partners from across the country for a two-day peer exchange on treating opioid use disorder in correctional settings.
The event highlighted how Essex County has become a “national model” with its unique and innovative program for addiction treatment for those incarcerated and as one of the few correctional systems in the nation with its own licensed Opioid Treatment Program (OTP).
Sheriff’s officials shared the story of how the program was launched, the challenges faced along the way, and the lessons learned along the way. The goal was simple — give other jurisdictions a roadmap they could take home to strengthen their own fight against the opioid crisis.
Officials from sheriff’s departments in Dekalb County (GA), Crow Wing County (MN), Franklin County (ME), Ventura County (CA), Arlington County (VA), Hennepin County (MN), and Dane County (WI) attended the exchange. They toured ECSD’s correctional-based treatment facility, joined panel discussions with staff and medical experts, and participated in breakout sessions on topics such as program design, security, funding strategies, mental health integration, and nursing best practices.
“Addressing the opioid crisis requires bold and coordinated action,” said Sheriff Coppinger. “We were proud to lead by example and share the lessons we’ve learned through our dedicated staff, medical partners, and community collaborations. Essex County’s program demonstrates that corrections can play a transformative role in saving lives and strengthening communities.”
The exchange also emphasized the balance between treatment, safety and security, as well as the importance of building strong community partnerships, particularly when planning an individual’s reentry back to the community. Attendees left with practical strategies and a toolkit designed to help them start or expand programs in their own counties.
The event was sponsored by the Opioid Response Network (ORN) and made possible by funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) with assistance from Rulo Strategies. ORN provides free educational resources and training focused on opioid and stimulant use disorders. The initiative helps address local needs through community-driven education delivered by experienced ORN consultants working in every state and territory. By partnering with ORN, communities are enhancing the workforce and building sustainability across both public health and public safety.