Syringe services programs (SSPs) in Ohio work to reduce transmission of HIV, hepatitis, and other diseases spread through needle sharing. Martin Flask, director of public safety for Cleveland, has seen no evidence that SSPs increase crime. SSPs disproportionately help African Americans and Latinos affected by HIV/AIDS spread through injection drug use. While SSPs in Cleveland, Portsmouth, and Cincinnati have helped reduce new HIV infections from 17.5% in 1995 to 3.4% in 2009, one program can only serve one-third of those in need due to lack of funding. Studies show that for every $1 invested in SSPs, $3-7 are saved in healthcare costs avoided.