Question of the Month

Diversion Notices

Question

I am 18 years old and have been interviewed by police for stealing a chocolate bar from Coles. The police said they would recommend a Diversion and I wouldn't get a criminal record. What is involved in a Diversion?

Answer

A Diversion Notice must be prepared by police for usually first time adult offenders who have acknowledged guilt/responsibility for a criminal offence and is served on offender's usually with the summons and/charge. There is a hearing in the Magistrate's court and a Diversion Plan is developed and usually requires the offender to write a letter of apology to a victim, monetary compensation top a victim if they have suffered loss, a letter of gratitude to the police thanking them for referring the matter to Diversion and either make a monetary donation to a charity or do unpaid community work at a charity.

If the offender completes their Diversion Plan their charge/s are dismissed and they do not end up with a criminal record.

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