(09:40) SANTA CRUZ – A program focusing on repeat criminal offenders in downtown Santa Cruz may be implemented elsewhere in the county. 70 repeat offenders who were a part of the program were assisted by judges, mental health workers and alcohol rehab counselors. According to police, arrests have gone down 68 percent, citations have gone down 70 percent, and emergency responses have gone down by 80 percent. The expansion of the program will be considered by the Santa Cruz City Council and County Board of Supervisors at budget hearings in May and June. (M.K.)
