Meridian HealthCare Joins Forces With Local Law Enforcement on New Crime Reduction Initiative
Meridian HealthCare is proud to partner with the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Canfield Post and the Youngstown Police Department on a proactive traffic safety and crime reduction initiative set to begin Thursday, June 19, and run through Friday, August 1.
The joint effort, which spans targeted areas throughout Mahoning County, aims to reduce crime and improve traffic safety through increased enforcement and on-the-ground support services. Meridian’s involvement brings a critical behavioral health component to the initiative, offering mental health assessments and drug rehabilitation services to individuals post-arrest, directly at the point of need.
“This initiative is about more than enforcement. It’s about connecting individuals with the care they need,” said Larry Moliterno, President and CEO of Meridian HealthCare. “We know that mental health and substance use disorders are often underlying factors in both criminal behavior and unsafe driving. By being on-site and ready to help, we can play a vital role in breaking that cycle.”
The collaboration highlights the growing recognition of how public safety and public health are intertwined. While law enforcement focuses on community protection and deterrence, Meridian HealthCare will support individuals in crisis with personalized treatment services. This integrated approach aligns with Meridian’s mission to deliver hope and healing through whole-person care.
“It has been a privilege for the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Canfield Post to collaborate with an organization like Meridian HealthCare. This partnership provides a direct path to assistance for individuals who come into contact with law enforcement who are also in need of specialized services. This collaboration has led to several success stories, and we are looking forward to more in the future.”
The initiative reinforces Meridian’s role as a long-standing leader in addiction treatment, mental health services, and integrated care. With nearly 50 years of service to the Mahoning Valley, Meridian continues to expand its outreach efforts by embedding support within community-based programs and law enforcement collaborations.
As this joint operation unfolds over the summer, Meridian HealthCare remains committed to its mission: delivering accessible care, addressing the root causes of addiction and mental illness, and supporting safer, healthier communities.
