DIVERSION PROGRAM

Crime Prevention Week-November 7-13, 2010
Connecting to Kids Today – Preventing Crime Tomorrow”

Diversion Program

The St. Thomas Police Service is a community partner of the Salvation Army. One of the Salvation Army’s many services includes the Diversion program.
What is the process of the Diversion program?
• Youth commits an offence
• Youth are referred by police from a reported incident
• Youth must accept responsibility for their actions
• Diversion must be completed within 3 months
Diversion includes but is not limited to, charitable donation, essay, restitution, verbal apology, community service, written letter of apology
• Youth worker works with youth/family and/or victim to repair harm done
• Police informed of outcome of program
• Non-completion, youth referred back to police services for a criminal charge and court appearance
The purpose of the Diversion program is based on a restorative approach to justice. It includes participation of victims, offenders, and communities to provide an opportunity for healing and reparation for individuals and communities. It gives priority to offender accountability, needs of the victim, community wellness and healing.