Assignment:
Diversion programs and specialized courts aim to treat and rehabilitate offenders rather than take them through the criminal court system. As noted in your reading, these programs involve offenders with drug addictions, mental health issues, and veteran status-and they are increasing in jurisdictions throughout the United States. But, how do the courts decide which offenders and which crimes qualify for diversion?
1. Identify a crime in your community that could be diverted, and explain why it's a good candidate for diversion.
2. Identify a crime in your community that is diverted but that you think should not be diverted. Explain why.