Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Achieves First Warm Handoff from Detention Center to Local Recovery Program

Murphy, NC – The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce a major milestone in its Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program with the successful completion of its first warm handoff from the detention center directly to a local treatment program. The individual transitioned into Renewed Hope, a one-year, four-phase recovery program in Murphy, NC, which incorporates a 12-step model to support treatment and reentry into the community.

The MAT Program, launched under Sheriff Smith’s administration and funded entirely by a grant from Dogwood Health Trust, is designed to provide holistic assessment and referral services for individuals in custody who struggle with substance use disorders. Rather than being released directly back onto the streets, participants are now connected to comprehensive, long-term treatment opportunities like Renewed Hope.

As part of this initiative, the Sheriff’s Office MAT clinician will provide weekly therapy to support

participants in their recovery journey. This approach aims not only to reduce recidivism but also to empower individuals to break free from the cycle of substance abuse and lead productive, healthy lives.

Sheriff Smith emphasized the importance of this effort, stating:

“We want everyone in our community to be a success in defeating the cycle of substance abuse. You don’t have to look far to see the negative impact drugs have on lives and families. We want to help bring back your sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, from the brink. This program is making strides toward that goal.”

The partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and Renewed Hope marks a significant step forward in addressing substance use disorders in Cherokee County by combining law enforcement efforts with community-based treatment and support.

For more information, please contact Darrell Manning, 828-837-2521