OTOE COUNTY JUVENILE DIVERSION
Juvenile Diversion Services are committed to assisting youth in avoiding future delinquent and criminal behavior and are dedicated to facilitating the youth's just and full participation in society.
JUVENILE DIVERSION SERVICES
Juvenile Diversion Services are tailored to the individual. The duration of involvement depends on the juvenile and the nature of the offense committed.
The Otoe County Attorney and Juvenile Diversion Coordinator will decide to accept or reject any juveniles eligible to receive services.
Withdrawing from the program without successfully completing the requirements or failing to comply with program conditions may lead to filing criminal charges on the offense and all fees forfeited.
Upon successful completion of the program and its requirements, the case will not be filed.
JUVENILE DIVERSION BENEFITS
Youth are able to avoid a juvenile court record and instead are offered the opportunity to develop positive life skills and understand the importance of personal responsibility.
Families are able to strengthen relationships with their child through improved communication skills.
Communities benefit as youth understand their role in the community and develop positive attitudes as well as a sense of responsibility toward their community.
The juvenile court system benefits through reduced case loads, increased efficiency and lowered court costs.
JUVENILED DIVERSION ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility is initially determined through the County Attorney's Office, taking into account the seriousness of the offense and record of prior offenses. Once enrolled, the Diversion Coordinator conducts an intake interview with the parent and child to determine services most suitable for the juvenile. Accountability plans are established outlining all requirements toward successful completion.
STANDARD REQUIREMENTS
- Pay all required fines, fees and restitution.
- Attend the six-week diversion class with a parent/guardian
- Abide by a curfew
- Satisfactorily complete all required community service
- Write an apology letter and complete all out-of-class assignments
- Avoid all situations that may involve criminal behavior and receive no additional law violations
- Attendance and satisfactory performance in school
- Seek employment if of age and appropriate or become involved in some form of positive extra-curricular activity
