Discuss the use of diversion with youthful offenders. What is the primary focus of diversion programs? Who is an appropriate candidate for diversion efforts? What are the various forms of diversion. Be sure to include examples of the various forms of diversion.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

At a minimum answers should specify that there are
many different forms of diversion interventions. The primary purpose, or focus, of
diversion is to minimize young people’s involvement with the juvenile justice system.
These programs are an option primarily for first-time or low-level youthful offenders,
primarily those involved with school-based arrests and referrals or those who commit
status offenses. These offenders do not pose any serious threat of reoffending. Beyond
this, these youth may be effectively assisted thorough the identification and treatment of
related problems, such as substance abuse, school failure, or mental health concerns.
Police may practice diversion at the point of contact with a juvenile offender. The officer
might use caution or warning programs, or he/she might refer the youth for a formal
diversion program. Caution or warning programs are the least restrictive of diversion
program options and divert the youth away from the juvenile justice system with no
further action taken by the police. Beyond a warning to refrain from problem activities,
the police involvement typically ends at this point and the youth is free to leave. Formal
diversion programs usually require the young person to take certain corrective steps,
typically an admission of guilt and an agreement to participate in programming is
required. The diversion intervention may also include service provisions. Upon
successful completion of the formal diversion agreement, the youth’s involvement with
the juvenile justice system will end with no further requirements or actions taken.
Examples of the various forms of diversion will differ across students.