Adult and Juvenile Diversion

Our Mission

To protect the public from future victimization by repeat offenders while providing an opportunity for first time offenders to be held accountable, repair harm, and reduce the risk of reoffending.

A Community’s Response

The Juvenile and Adult Diversion Programs were created in response to our community’s desire to deal with juvenile/adult offenders effectively and creatively. Diversion is designed to hold juveniles/adults accountable for their behavior and to recognize and repair the harm they have done to their victims and their community. Juveniles learn new skills and change current behaviors that will enable them to become responsible young adults. The Adult Diversion Program holds offenders accountable for their actions while providing intervention and supervision geared toward positive decision making and productive citizenship.

First Time Offenders

The Diversion Program deals Primarily with first-time offenders who are able to demonstrate a potential and desire to start making positive choices and changes in their lives. The Diversion programs focus on repairing harm and teaching skills. Diversion contracts are created by Diversion Officers and catered to the individual.

Accountability

To be accepted into the program, individuals must take accountability for their actions. Based on the charges, assessment results, and information given during the intake meeting, the Diversion Officer creates a contract of conditions. The conditions often include but are not limited to: restitution, community service, life skills training, counseling, victim offender meetings, victim empathy assignments, group classes, and pro social involvement.

A Dual Approach

The District Attorney recognizes the necessity of a dual approach to dealing with juvenile & adult offenders. Holding offenders accountable for their behavior sends a clear message concerning what our community will tolerate and what it will not tolerate. Diversion offers the opportunity to make amends and learn new behaviors and skills. Diversion sends the message that our community cares about the future of our youth and productive citizenship of our adults.

Diversion also provides services in:

• Minor in Possession (MIP) cases
• Healthy Choices (Sexting and Internet safety education classes)