Pretrial diversion programs provide an alternative to prosecution by diverting certain offenders, particularly youthful offenders, from traditional criminal justice processing into a program of supervision and services.
First-time, nonviolent offenders who have the education and skills to contribute by earning a living, paying taxes, restitution, and supporting their families, should be considered for pretrial diversion, including community service. Some defendants, through pretrial diversion, could continue to work and make restitution without being a financial burden on taxpayers. Pretrial diversion programs should be free of charge and available to all qualifying individuals so it is not a “pay to play” system designed to help those who can afford it.