The Probation and Diversion Section has the responsibility to monitor individuals and ensure compliance with the requirements as stipulated in the Court ordered probation.
The Misdemeanor Probation Section (MPS) handles all court ordered misdemeanor charges, with regard to supervision time and special conditions. These conditions may include any number of the following: anger management, domestic abuse counseling, restitution, community service hours or an addictive behavior evaluation. Non-compliance of probation conditions may result in revocation of probation and a return to Court.
The Diversion Program (DP), in lieu of prosecution, has proven to be a viable alternative and beneficial to the community.
Diverting cases:
- aids and protects victims with respect to the collection of restitution;
- cases free up additional court dates allowing our office to aggressively pursue more serious cases;
- frees up jail space for more serious offenders; and,
- holds the DEFENDANT liable for the cost of prosecution instead of the taxpayers.
Statistics show that if an individual does not have a criminal record before age 25, he or she is less likely to become a career criminal. Therefore, diverting cases holds the defendant accountable for his or her actions while providing structured penalties and assisting the individual to a more productive life.
For more information, contact Chief Probation Officer Norman Coldiron at (337) 948-3041.