The District Attorney’s Office and Criminal Justice Services Launch New Douglas County Enhanced Diversion Program

Lawrence, Kan. – On Monday, the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with Douglas County Criminal Justice Services, launched the Enhanced Diversion Program.

“The Douglas County District Attorney’s Office recognizes that its responsibilities extend beyond its chief function of ensuring public safety,” said Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez.

“While public safety and victims’ rights are paramount, societal interests such as equal access to justice and offender reformation can often be served through alternatives to incarceration,” Valdez said.

The Enhanced Diversion Program serves as an alternative to incarceration. Participants of the program generally would not otherwise have the option of diverting their cases due to a determination that they are higher-risk, higher-needs, or some combination of both.

While diverting participants from the court system, the Enhanced Diversion Program provides structure. Participants receive support in accessing community resources and supports for issues such as addiction and mental illness. Access to these resources helps participants identify and address the underlying issues which may have led to their involvement with the criminal justice system.

For more information about eligibility and program requirements, contact Deputy District Attorney Joshua Seiden at jseiden@dgcoks.gov.

No applicant shall be denied admission based upon race, ethnic background, religion, gender, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or economic status.