The Youth & Young Adult Diversion Program, in cooperation with the Grosse Pointe/Harper Woods police and Juvenile Court, diverts first offenders from the juvenile justice system. Youth who participate in diversion avoid contact with the juvenile court and instead are involved in structured, a community-based program. Eligible first offenses include shoplifting, curfew, petty theft, criminal trespass, criminal damage, and runaway. Minor in possession of alcohol and marijuana violations are able to have their first offense dismissed upon successfully completion of the diversion program. CARE’s Diversion Program is an option for first-time offenders who have no prior criminal offenses in any jurisdiction.

How does it work?

A referral from Wayne County Juvenile Court or Grosse Pointe/Harper Woods public safety departments are received by CARE’s  Diversion Program. The referred youth and his or her parents/guardian are scheduled for an intake appointment with a caseworker. A parent/guardian is not necessary for those participating in the Young Adult program (17-20 years.) During the initial session a psychosocial assessment is completed to assist in developing an individualized program designed to address the needs of the youth.  Program requirements may include involvement in mentoring, counseling, attendance at a community education workshop, and community service work.

1. To direct the juvenile offender toward more positive and responsible behavior.
2. To intercept the juvenile offender at an early stage of high risk behavior to avoid the possibility of further progression to more serious offenses.
3. To avoid the negative connotations associated with referral to juvenile court.
4. To refer to professional counseling and other services when indicated.

To be accepted into the program you must

• Be a first time offender charged with non-traffic criminal misdemeanor offense
• Not have any criminal misdemeanors or felony convictions in any jurisdiction.  Discovery of prior convictions at any time while participating in the program will result in automatic revocation from the program.
• Not have previously participated in a misdemeanor or felony diversion program in any jurisdiction.
• Not have other criminal charges pending in any jurisdiction.
• Assume responsibility for your offense (s).
• Cooperate with the Diversion Program.

Requirements

All program participants are required to complete a psychosocial assessment as part of the program.  There will be other program requirements which depend upon the type of offence committed and the particular needs of the individual. Typical program requirements include, mentoring, counseling, attendance at a community education workshop, and community service work.

Benefits

CARE’s Diversion Program attempts to direct the first offender toward more positive and responsible behavior and to provide counseling and other services where indicated. Successful completion of the program will result in the dismissal of the participant's criminal charges. The program participant avoids the stigma and repercussions of a criminal conviction.

Youth Diversion Program: $75.00 assessment fee
Young Adult Diversion: $150.00 assessment fee

• The assessment will not be performed if the participant fails to pay the fee and the intake appointment will have to be rescheduled.

Contact:

Lynda Zott, Youth Assistance Coordinator
lzott@careofsem.com
21012 Mack Avenue
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
313-332-0972
313469-6956 (FAX)