Politics & Government

Pre-Trial Diversion Program Starts

Solicitor-General Sherry Boston says the program will allow first-time, misdemeanor offenders to avoid a criminal record through counseling, classes and community service.

DeKalb County Solicitor-General Sherry Boston's office sent out a press release announcing the start of a pre-trial diversion program on Friday morning.

She said about 150 offenders are scheduled to show up at 9 a.m. in magistrate court at the at 556 N. McDonough St. to begin the process.  

The press release went on to say:

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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.

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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. 

Boston said the offenders in the program have been charged with crimes such as shoplifting, disorderly conduct or affray. People charged with offenses such as driving under the influence, vehicular homicide and family violence battery cannot join the pre-trial diversion program.


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