The Pre-Trial Intervention & Diversion Program (also referred to as PIDP) is a voluntary alternative to prosecution for eligible offenders that sincerely wish to turn their lives around and not return to the criminal justice system.

 

PIDP Purpose

The program is designed to meet the needs of our community by:

• Deterring future criminal behavior

• Monitoring the offender from arrest until final case disposition

• Minimizing loss to victims through payment of restitution by offenders

• Reducing the non-violent caseload in order to create court calendar availability for the prosecution of more severe crimes

 

PIDP Eligibility

An offender must meet the following minimum criteria to be considered for participation:

• Minimal felony nonviolent charges, with minimal prior misdemeanor conviction(s) and/or juvenile adjudication

• No previous participation in diversion programs

• Ability to pay reasonable restitution if required All criteria are decided on a case-by-case basis with final approval by the District Attorney.

 

PIDP Participant Determination

An Assistant District Attorney reviews the offender’s pending charges, criminal history and victim statements associated with the pending charges. If an offender meets the initial eligibility requirements, the ADA makes a referral to the District Attorney who conducts a final review then approves or denies program participation. If the offender is approved, notification of their eligibility to participate is provided along additional instructions for acceptance into the program.

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PIDP Participation Advantages

The program offers an offender an opportunity for self-development and an increased awareness of the consequences of future criminal behavior. Additional advantages of participation are:

• Avoid additional cost related to further criminal prosecution

• Avoid possible criminal conviction and incarceration and/or fine.

• Remain in the community with limited disruption to family life and employment

• Case dismissal and restriction

 

PIDP Program Components

During the 90 days of active participation, participants are required to attend group meetings, counseling and/or testing. Referrals are made to community agencies which can provide services relevant to the participant’s needs. Community service hours are required at a non-profit organization and participants are required to pay restitution, if any is owed.

 

PIDP Fees

• The non-refundable participation fee is $600.

• Mandatory drug screens are $25 each.

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PIDP Conclusion

If the PIDP participant is subsequently arrested or violates the PIDP rules, the assigned Assistant District Attorney will return the participant’s case to the active court calendar for prosecution. If the PIDP participant successfully completes PIDP, the participant’s pending case is nolle prossed (dismissed).

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Contact us: da.pandcs@claytoncountyga.gov