Do you know a teenager slipping through the cracks? The Juvenile Diversion Board provides a community-based alternative to juvenile court.
The purpose of the Juvenile Diversion Board (JDB) is to provide an alternative to Juvenile Court for juveniles who have committed minor criminal violations in Stonington, and to assist youth who have exhibited problems in the home, school and community.
Eligibility & Referral for Juvenile Diversion Board Services
- The JDB will accept referrals for any resident of Stonington who is under
the age of sixteen.
- Referrals will be accepted when the person being referred has signed his/her
willingness to cooperate with the JDB by signing the required consent form.
The signature of a parent/guardian is also required.
- Referrals will be accepted from the Stonington Police Department (SPD),
schools, social service agencies, professionals, parents/guardians or self.
- Youth referred by the SPD must accept total responsibility for the offense
with which they are charged before the JDB can review the case.
Recommendations
After reviewing a case, the JDB will make a recommendation to the referring source and the juvenile involved. The recommendation will try to coordinate all corrective, supportive and rehabilitative efforts that would lead to the most advantageous solution to the problems present in each case.
The JDB Coordinator will follow up implementation of the recommendations. Recommendations may include, but are not limited to: referral to Juvenile Court, monetary or work restitution, written reports, attendance at appropriate workshops or activities, community service, counseling, etc.
The recommendations will be specific and will include a time limit for expected completion.
Juvenile Diversion Board Members
The JDB consists of at least seven members. New members will be appointed by a majority vote of the existing JDB members and approved by the Human Services Department and the Chief of Police.
The seven members include:
- JDB Coordinator
- Youth Police Officer
- School Personnel
- Four or more at-large members
At-large members are members of the community who have skills and/or experience working with youth and their families.
If you are interested in becoming a JDB member, please contact Human Services at 535-5015.
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