What is a Juvenile Community Diversion Program (CDP)?
CDP is a community-based program designed to sanction certain juvenile minor misdemeanor and status/unruly offenders. Juvenile offenders and their parent(s)/guardian(s) attend a conference with a volunteer magistrate to discuss the incident and determine how the case may best be resolved.

 
How does CDP work?
The juvenile court refers eligible cases to the CDP in the community the offense occurred or where the child resides. CDP contacts the guardian and the offender to schedule a conference. If the juvenile complies with the sanctions at the CDP conference they can avoid being formally charge with the offense and has no juvenile court record.
If the juvenile does not agree or does not comply with the agreement, the case will be sent back to the juvenile court for charges to be filed or other actions to take place.

What type of sanctions may a child face?
CDP sanctions may include; but are not limited to the following: community service hours, restitution, letters of apology, written assignments, curfews and restrictions of privileges. In addition to sanctions, services such as drug and alcohol assessment, testing and treatment, academic testing and tutoring, and mental health assessment, treatment and counseling may be part of the CDP agreement.
 

How does CDP benefit victims?
Victims receive:
• Swift restitution for property damage
• Swift restitution for medical expenses
• Knowledge that the juvenile is being held responsible for offense and actions
• Opportunity to participate if appropriate and so desired
In addition, victims do not have to testify downtown when the juvenile participates in CDP.
 

The Juvenile Community Diversion Coordinator, Penny Jarrell, can be reached at 440-735-6564 or pjarrell@bedfordoh.gov