"Providing the
resources, expertise and commitment to assist people in meeting their needs
to maintain quality of life, productivity, and independence."
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DIVERSION
Sullivan County Youth Court Diversion:
Is an alternative to court involvement for first time youthful offenders that are age 17 and under. This program empowers youth to make responsible decisions, learn from their mistakes and make restitution to those victimized by their actions. Diversion is independently governed by a diverse and creative community team and is approved by the Newport, Claremont and New London District Courts.
Sullivan County Adult Diversion:
Is an alternative to court involvement for an adult who is a first time offender. This program is available to adults, 18 and above, who take full responsibility for their offense. Offenses that are Misdemeanors or Felony A’s and B’s are considered for this program. Referrals come from District Court Judges, Police Officers or Prosecuting Officers. Defense Lawyers may recommend Adult Diversion on behalf of the offender in court.
Level I Diversion uses the same infrastructure as court diversion and is offered to schools as an alternative to out of school suspension (OSS). A contract is developed by a team of community volunteers and is designed to educate and hold the student accountable for the incident that warranted an OSS. If the student is in compliance with the terms of the contract he/she will not be suspended. If the youth does not follow through on the terms an OSS takes place.
Options for Tobacco Violations:
The Sullivan County Youth & Adult Diversion Program saves Towns and Sullivan County money by reducing expenses associated with Police investigations, prosecutorial expenses, and an already crowded Court docket. Savings are estimated to be approximately $2, 500.00 per youth & adult referred to diversion and untold future expenses by addressing issues NOW, not later.
Diversion is the formation of a contract with the Diversion Committee, the Program Coordinator, and the adolescent's parent or guardian. The purpose of the contract is to make restitution to victims, family members, and the community at large for the inappropriate choices the adolescent (or adult) has made that brought them to the prosecutorial stage. Contract conditions could include: community service, an essay, an oral presentation to youth, an oral presentation to the Diversion Committee, a referral to ADAC, STARD, Y.E.S., or TAAP, a referral to outside programs, drug testing and counseling, family or individual counseling, school contracts (such as maintaining "B" grades or better), producing a plan for success in school, letters of apology, Power Point presentations, anti-drug campaign posters, or any other appropriate condition agreed to by the parties.