DeKalb County Pre-Trial Diversion Program Begins

Sherry Boston, DeKalb County Solicitor-General, has launched the new Pre-Trial Diversion Program (PTD) in DeKalb County. As part of the program, low-level, first-time offenders will complete conditions that are tailored to their particular criminal charges and geared towards breaking the cycle of criminal activity. Through counseling, classes and community service, offenders will be guided toward alternative methods of managing and understanding the behavior that led to their criminal activity, thereby reducing the likelihood that they will commit future crimes.

Offenders will be charged $300 to participate in the program and the monies will be deposited directly to the County General Fund. Those who complete the program successfully will receive a dismissal of the misdemeanor charge(s) from the DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office and their case may be eligible for expungement. As a result, the offender can avoid developing a criminal record.

“Establishing a much-needed diversion program like this was one of my goals for the office,” said Boston. “I believe smart prosecution leads to a better quality of life and this program is part of that approach because it makes DeKalb safer while increasing offender accountability; saves taxpayers money by reducing the number of days low-level offenders spend in jail; and gives people the tools they need to avoid repeating mistakes and, instead, live as productive law-abiding citizens.”

First-time defendants charged with shoplifting, disorderly conduct, affray, or other minor offenses will be eligible for the program. Some offenses, such as driving under the influence and vehicular homicide are categorically excluded from the program. One of the goals of the Solicitor-General’s Office is to prevent and reduce crime and promote the safety and security of individuals and their communities, residential and commercial establishments and public facilities, and this is one step in this direction.

The PTD program is a win-win for the offender and the rest of the taxpayers in DeKalb. Not only will the program give offenders an opportunity for a second chance, it also will save the county resources by reducing the number of cases on the traditional court dockets. There will be money saved by reducing the need for jurors, witnesses, off-duty officers, court reporters, deputies in the courtroom, and courtroom personnel.

By offering counseling and rehabilitative services to low-level offenders we will ultimately reduce recidivism as treatment and/or education deters offenders from committing further criminal acts. Moreover, reducing recidivism ultimately saves taxpayers money by reducing the number of jail days offenders serve at a cost of $57 per day to the county. The PTD program is the first of its kind in State Court and offers an efficient and centralized method of resolving misdemeanor charges committed by low-level offenders. The program is also strengthening partnerships among courthouse agencies and community agencies.

On Oct. 21, the program held its first court calendar, and will host a calendar each month. This program would not be possible without the strong partnership with the DeKalb County Magistrate Court and Chief Judge Berryl A. Anderson. Judge Anderson and her court have been instrumental in ensuring this program runs smoothly.

For more information about the PTD program call 404-371-2201.