Diversion Programs Are Effective and Powerful Tools for Prosecutors

In recent years, prosecutors across the country have been reexamining what justice really looks like, especially for low-level and first-time offenses. As caseloads grow and communities call for more equitable, restorative solutions, diversion programs have emerged as one of the most powerful tools in a prosecutor’s toolbox.

Rather than pursuing traditional prosecution and sentencing, diversion programs give eligible individuals a chance to take responsibility, address underlying issues, and avoid a lifelong criminal record, all while improving outcomes for victims, communities, and public safety systems alike.

Why Diversion Works

Diversion is not about being “soft on crime.” It’s about being smart on justice. These programs are built on a simple premise: when people are given the right tools, education, and support, they are far less likely to reoffend.

Evidence backs this up. Participants in diversion programs consistently exhibit lower recidivism rates than those who undergo traditional prosecution. One study even found that people who completed diversion programs were 48% less likely to be convicted again over the next decade and more likely to gain employment.

Diversion also frees up valuable resources, saving court time, reducing jail populations, and allowing prosecutors to focus on more serious crimes.

Prosecutors as Leaders in Reform

Prosecutors are uniquely positioned to drive change. They decide which cases move forward, which individuals are eligible for alternative resolutions, and how accountability is defined.

By championing diversion, prosecutors don’t just reduce backlogs; they promote long-term community safety and public trust.

Programs can be customized to meet the needs of a community, whether that means restorative justice conferences, substance abuse treatment, or educational courses addressing behaviors like shoplifting, reckless driving, or anger management.

The Role of Offense-Based Diversion

Education is often a cornerstone of effective diversion. At Advent eLearning, we’ve seen firsthand how online, evidence-based courses can help individuals reflect on their actions, change thought patterns, and build better decision-making skills.

These courses offer flexibility and accessibility, especially important for rural areas or individuals with transportation or scheduling barriers. And for prosecutors, they provide a structured, trackable way to ensure accountability and follow-through.

The Bottom Line

Diversion programs aren’t just a compassionate choice; they’re a strategic, data-driven approach to modern prosecution. They reduce recidivism, protect public resources, and give people a second chance to move forward with their lives.

For prosecutors committed to justice, safety, and community well-being, diversion isn’t a compromise. It’s a solution.

Contact Advent eLearning

If you’re interested in how Advent eLearning can benefit your agency and your clients, click here to visit our website. You can review Advent eLearning courses with no costs or obligations for your organization.

Advent eLearning courses address a variety of topics including:

Alcohol & Substance Abuse

Anger Management

Animal Care

Boating & Outdoors

Bullying

Juvenile Conflict Resolution

Corrective Thinking

Defensive Driving

Financial Crimes

Firearm Responsibility

Harassment

Hunting Responsibility

Impaired Driving

Juvenile Sexting

Life Skills

Marijuana & THC

Parenting

Prostitution

Revenge Porn

Shoplifting

Theft

Traffic Safety

Underage Substance

Victim Impact Panel