What is the purpose of a juvenile diversion program?

In South Carolina, a juvenile diversion program is a tool used by the criminal justice system to divert juveniles from entering the juvenile court system and ultimately reduce the number of juveniles who are formally charged and enter the juvenile court system. The purpose of this program is to provide an alternative to traditional prosecution that emphasizes accountability and rehabilitation, particularly for first-time juvenile offenders. Through this program, juvenile offenders can avoid a permanent criminal record or the possibility of being placed in a juvenile detention center. The objectives of a juvenile diversion program are to divert juvenile offenders from the juvenile justice system and to provide them with an opportunity to take responsibility for their actions. This is accomplished by providing: educational, social, and/or behavioral services that address an offender’s underlying needs; opportunities for an offender to take responsibility for their actions and repair harms to their victims and the community; and guidance and support to help an offender become a law-abiding citizen. In addition to providing juveniles with an opportunity to take responsibility and repair harms, these programs also encourage positive behavior, such as completing educational requirements or attending school. Participating in a diversion program can also lead to positive long-term outcomes, such as improved academic achievement and reduced recidivism.

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What is the purpose of a juvenile diversion program?

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