Joe Peters: Balancing Compassion and Accountability in Addiction Recovery
Treating that pain is why people use drugs, and then it starts them down that road.
Imagine a world where law enforcement and compassion go hand in hand. That's the vision Wyoming County District Attorney Joe Peters shares in this episode of AllBetter. Host Joe Van Wie sits down with Peters to explore how his journey from street cop to a federal prosecutor has shaped his unique approach to addiction and recovery. Peters, who has served two U.S. presidents and led efforts against drug trafficking and terrorism, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
His career highlights include the historic conviction of Philadelphia Mob Boss 'Little Nicky' Scarfo and his associates, earning him the title of 'Modern Day Untouchable'. But beyond his impressive resume, Peters is deeply committed to public service and finding compassionate solutions to addiction. In their conversation, Peters discusses how the pandemic has exacerbated mental health and addiction issues, stressing the need to address the root causes of addiction by treating underlying pain.
He advocates for breaking down barriers between law enforcement and treatment providers, pushing for a culture change that prioritizes treatment over incarceration. Peters' latest initiative aims to fund these compassionate solutions through community support rather than relying on taxpayer dollars. This episode offers a compelling look at how accountability and empathy can coexist in the fight against addiction. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in justice reform, mental health, or recovery.