Domestic Violence Diversion

What is the Domestic Violence Diversion Program?

The Domestic Violence Diversion Program is intended to offer highly motivated defendants an alternative to confinement and conviction. If accepted, he/she will identify psychosocial risk factors during early development that led to adult intimate partner violence and study healthy relationship dynamics. Participants should understand how the cycle of intimate partner violence affects children adversely and learn the skills necessary to recognize how their behaviors can become more consistent with a positive sense of self, thereby reducing negative or violent interactions.
Our purpose is to provide comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation services to those who sincerely want to make behavioral changes. DV Diversion is not an “easy out.” The key purpose is to encourage authentic self-awareness by using risk assessments and biopsychosocial appraisals that are not commonly used in traditional prosecution tracks to ensure victim safety and reduce recidivism.

Who is Eligible for the Domestic Violence Diversion Program?

1. The defendant must be at least 18 years of age.
2. The defendant must not have been convicted of a violent offense within the last 10 yrs. The defendant may not apply if charged with harassment or stalking.
3. The defendant must never have had probation or parole revoked.
4. The applicant must not have been diverted for another domestic violence offense within the last 10 years.
5. The Defendant must be a resident of York County.

How Does the Domestic Violence Diversion Program Work?

• Application –
  • After the defendant is referred, the Coordinator will call him/her to schedule an appointment to begin the application process. The defendant will bring a picture identification, social security card, and a $100 application fee in the form of a money order.
• Investigation/Assessment –
  • The DV Diversion staff will review referrals and obtain a criminal history report. The defendant will be assessed using a biopsychosocial appraisal and an offender-based risk assessment.
• Approval –
  • Once approved, the defendant will plead guilty to the charges and the sentencing will be deferred pending the successful completion of the program.
• Participation Requirements –
  • The defendant will participate in counseling determined by the assessment, considering victim safety and MDT input, as well as attend face-to-face meetings with the case coordinator. Participants must adhere to bond conditions, relinquish firearms, and remain drug-free unless prescribed.
• Completion –
  • Upon successful completion of all program requirements, charges will be dismissed and eligible for expungement, within a year. Termination prior to successful completion will result in adjudication and implication of collateral consequences of the plea.

PROGRAM FEES:

Application Fee: $100
Participation Fee: $250
Expungement Fee: $250
Clerk Fee: $35

Restitution:

If the defendant owes restitution, the amount will be determined and a payment plan developed prior to being accepted into the DV Diversion Program.

Drug Tests:

There is no cost for onsite drug tests. If a test is sent to the lab for verification, the defendant will be charged.