Diversion

The Juvenile Probation Department has a diversion program which is intended to divert youth away from formal involvement in the criminal justice system while at the same time addressing the issues which brought the youth to the attention of the Court as well as helping the youth and family to obtain any needed services within the community. The Diversion Program targets lower risk youth who are typically first time offenders who are charged with status/unruly violations or misdemeanor offenses. The youth and parents must agree to participate in the program or the case will be formally filed with the Court. Services are tailored to the specific offense and underlying behaviors and can include: consequences, treatment, educational programming, supervision contracts, and referrals for other community services or support for the youth and family. If the youth and parents successfully complete the program, no charge is formally filed with the Court.