MSP’s Angel Program, which helps people overcome addiction, celebrates 3 years

MANISTIQUE — A program that helps people overcome alcohol and drug addiction is celebrating 3 years, and is encouraging others to participate.

The Michigan State Police Angel Program directly helps those with substance addictions get the help they need.

According to one officer, the goal of the program is to help people get over their addiction, without fear of legal consequence.

“We do encourage people that are in that state of addiction where they don’t know where to turn, that they can come to us without fear of repercussion and arrest,” said Sgt. Mark Giannunzio, of the MSP-Manistique Post. “If it’s somebody out there who’s in need of help and they just don’t know where to turn, this is definitely an option, and we can get them help, without fearing going to jail.”

While the number of program participants more than doubled in 2020, the Michigan State Police want to see more.

Since the program first rolled out, about 440 people statewide have participated.

The Angel Program is available at every Michigan State Police post. For more information on the program, visit their website here.