This study evaluates how deflection initiatives—programs that redirect people from deeper criminal-legal system (CLS) involvement toward community-based substance use services—affect public health and safety. Researchers are examining outcomes such as overdoses, substance-related emergency medical service calls, and drug-related arrests. The study compares two strategies for implementing deflection models: (1) CORE Community Engagement, which focuses on local stakeholder involvement, and (2) ENHANCED Community Engagement, which adds support from community advocates. By testing these approaches across varied communities, the project aims to identify widely applicable, sustainable strategies to strengthen deflection efforts.