Smart Practices for Diversion Programs
While diversion programs have the potential to further rehabilitative and de-carceral goals, there are significant risks to these programs. At the same time, some jurisdictions have adopted diversion programs that are providing free services to community members who need assistance. These programs coordinate diverse stakeholders, changing district attorney and police culture in the process. They use a model that prioritizes harm reduction and de-carceration. These programs, not their exploitative, pay-for-play counterparts, should be our goal. The documents in this section set forth principles and practices for building diversion programs that truly help communities.
Policy Documents