A. Pre-Trial Diversion is a program designed to allow an opportunity for a certain class of first-time felony offenders to avoid conviction. The program operates similar to probation in that there is constant monitoring of participants during their time on diversion. Experienced assistant prosecuting attorneys usually screen applicants at their first circuit court appearance. Background information including verification of the applicant's criminal history is obtained to assist with that screening. The decision whether to accept an applicant is entirely at the discretion of the screening assistant prosecuting attorney.

A. In general, Diversion is available to first-time offenders who have been charged with non-violent offenses. The majority of these cases involve the theft or fraud of small amounts of money or property.

A. Participants must pay full restitution, perform extensive community service, and report to Diversion personnel once a month as part of their requirements for continued participation. Participants must also remain crime-free and drug-free throughout their period on Diversion.

A. Any participant in Diversion who fails to comply with the rules of the program faces revocation of his/her status and the case proceeds back to the trial courts for further disposition.

A.At the successful conclusion of a participant's term in the program, his/her case is dismissed.