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Inflated success rates pushed Seattle diversion program nationwide

Data shows false information about the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program’s success led to tens of millions in federal and local funding.

Published Sep 11, 2026, 7:15 PM EDT | WFMZZ

Data indicates false information about the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion model prompted Congress and other entities to appropriate tens of millions of dollars for the program. The Seattle-developed diversion initiative was promoted and expanded across the country based on inflated success rates.