The Diversion Program is structured to concentrate on the positive development of both juveniles and adults.  The program is designed to teach responsibility and provide consequences to those individuals exhibiting criminal behavior, thus helping to reduce or eliminate future criminal acts.  The key component for this program is the acceptance of responsibility for the alleged offense and a willingness to discuss the motives for the act.

In addition, Diversion:

  • Holds individuals accountable for their actions
  • Provides a firm response to the participant’s unlawful behavior
  • Refers families to appropriate support agencies and programs within our community
  • Provides education on specific topics related to criminal violations

Juvenile Diversion is available for first-time offenders, ages 10 to 17 years, who meet specific criteria based on the facts of the offense.  Requirements for the program are based on the type of offense, individual needs and standard requirements (i.e. curfew, school).  If eligible, the juvenile and parent(s)/guardian(s) meet with a Diversion Counselor to determine appropriate contract requirements.

If the Juvenile complies with the contract requirements and does not commit a new offense, the case is closed without prosecution.  If the juvenile is non-compliant, the case is returned for charging of criminal charges and the juvenile and parent(s)/guardian(s) must appear in court regarding the charge(s).

Adult Diversion is structured similar to Juvenile Diversion with the intent to provide early intervention to detour future criminal involvement for individuals over 18 years of age.  Adult offenders must accept responsibility for their actions and meet with a Diversion Counselor for a contract to be created.

If the individual complies with the contract requirements and does not commit a new offense, the case is closed without prosecution or dismissed.  If the individual is non-compliant the case is referred to prosecution and the individual must appear in court regarding the charge(s).

M.I.P. (Minor IPossession) is for juveniles and young adults (under 21 years of age) who have received a first-time citation for Underage Possession of Alcohol or Possession of Marijuana.  The juvenile/young adult enters into a Short-term agreement with offense specific requirements which is followed by a Diversion Counselor. Upon completion, the case is dismissed and automatically sealed by the court pursuant to C.R.S. 18-13-122.

S.H.O.P. (Stealing Hurts Other People) is a four-hour educational seminar offered to first-time shoplifters appearing in Municipal Court.  The seminar utilizes the Restorative Justice format where juveniles participate in an open dialog addressing the impact of theft on the community, offenders, and their families.