Hill County Youth Diversion Program

 

 

The Hill County Youth Diversion Program is designed to provide an alternative to traditional court proceedings for eligible youth offenders. This program adheres to Texas H.B. 3186 and is structured in accordance with Article 45.306(b} of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. The program aims to reduce recidivism, promote accountability, and provide educational and rehabilitative opportunities for youth.

Objectives

 

1. Reduce Recidivism: Minimize repeat offenses among youth by providing constructive interventions.

2. Promote Accountability: Encourage youth to take responsibility for their actions through community service and restitution.

3. Enhance Life Skills: Provide educational resources and support to develop positive life skills.

4. Improve Community Relations: Foster better relationships between youth and law enforcement, community members, and the judicial system.

5. Support Families: Engage families in the diversion process to promote a supportive home environment.

 

Applicability

 

1. Youth Diversion Program only applies to offenses which occur on or after January 1, 2025.

2. The child is charged with a misdemeanor offense, punishable by fine only, other than a traffic offense.

3. A child has not entered into a diversion agreement in the past 365 days.

4. A child is not eligible for diversion if the child previously had an unsuccessful diversion.

5. A child is not eligible for diversion if a diversion is objected to by the attorney representing the State.

6. A child may not be diverted from criminal prosecution without the consent of the child and child's parent/guardian.

7. The child is at least 10 years of age and younger than 17 years of age at the time of the offense.

 

Referral

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Referrals to the Youth Diversion Program may be made by:

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• Law enforcement officers at the time of the offense.

• The Hill County Judge during arraignment.

• Parents or guardians of the youth.

• School officials or community organizations.

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Intake I Eligibility

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1. Initial Screening: Upon referral, the court will conduct an initial screening to determine eligibility based on offense type, age, and prior history.

2. Parental Consent: Consent from a parent or guardian is required for youth to participate in the program.

3. Assessment: A comprehensive assessment will evaluate the youth's needs, strengths, and any underlying issues contributing to their behavior.

 

Evaluation

 

An evaluation process will be implemented to assess:

 

• The individual needs of the youth.

• Any educational, mental health, or substance abuse issues.

• The youth's support system, including family and community resources.

 

Intermediate Diversion Intake and Implementation

 

1. Program Orientation: Eligible youth and their families will attend an orientation session to understand the program's goals, expectations, and requirements.

2.   Development of a Personalized Plan: Each youth will have a tailored plan that may include:

 

• Community service hours

• Educational workshops

• Counseling or mentoring sessions

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Diversion Agreement

 

This process helps maintain the integrity of the diversion program and ensures that it serves as a meaningful opportunity for first-time or infrequent offenders.

 

1. Contract Signing: Youth and parents/guardians will sign a diversion agreement outlining the terms of participation, including goals, responsibilities, and consequences for non­ compliance.

2. Sworn Affidavit: As part of the agreement, the youth and parent/guardian will sign a sworn affidavit confirming that the youth has not participated in any youth diversion program within the last 365 days. This affidavit will serve to ensure that the diversion program is being used appropriately and that the youth is eligible for this opportunity

3.   Commitment to Conditions: Youth must commit to completing the agreed-upon requirements within a specified timeframe.

 

Referral to Court and Court Proceedings

 

 

1. Completion of Program: Upon successful completion of the diversion program, the youth will be referred back to the court for dismissal of charges.

2. Monitoring Compliance: The program coordinator will monitor progress and compliance with the diversion agreement.

3.   Court Dismissal: If all conditions are met, the court will formally dismiss the case, allowing the youth to avoid a permanent criminal record.

 

Conclusion

 

The Hill County Youth Diversion Program aims to provide youth with the opportunity for rehabilitation and growth, steering them away from the criminal justice system while fostering community involvement and personal accountability. Through a structured approach, we hope to support our youth in becoming positive, productive members of society.