Yvette Clarke actually said...

"the program provides alternatives to incarceration for substance abuse offenders throughout New York City's metropolitan area."

"Studies by the nation's leading criminal justice researchers have shown that ATIs reduce jail time and successfully treat people in the community without compromising public safety."

"the program provides a cost-effective, responsible alternative to expensive and ineffective incarceration, saving taxpayers more than $17 million last year alone."

"There is great concern in minority communities, in particular, that once this happens, the already low minority high school graduation rate will plummet even further."