Pretrial Diversion in Bexar County: Investigates found that many Bexar County suspects given pretrial diversion (PTD) committed new crimes after dropped cases. In some instances, it restarted due to an unfinished program. People with few criminal records usually get PTD, except those charged with using deadly weapons.
This tool closes cases and deletes data. Some criminals completed PTD, but 14 returned to crime after the program ended, and 33 points reopened due to non-completion. Despite issues, Bexar County DA Joe Gonzales approves the program. He highlights growth during his tenure and success in reducing recidivism.
PTD is a lawyer-defendant agreement. Typically, it includes classes, community work, and repayment. PTD program rules are not public, so avoiding government trouble is essential.
PTD recipients who reoffended highlight the plan’s complexity. One criminal got PTD in Dec 2020 but was caught driving drunk two years later. The defendant’s PTD dropped in June 2021, and still faces charges, including DUI. This shows the challenge of preventing repeat offenses in a people-based court system.
PTD is still a good program for second chances and record improvement despite its issues.
In short, data shows successes and issues with PTD in Bexar County. Some participants improve, while others relapse or don’t complete it. The program is vital to the court system’s efforts to offer second chances and promote change.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is pretrial diversion in Bexar County?
A pre-trial diversion program is set up by a district attorney’s office and offers a way to have a criminal case dismissed without entering a formal guilty plea or completing deferred adjudication.
What is the Bexar County Jail diversion program?
Individuals participating in Jail Diversion Programs are carefully assessed for a range of services by the Bexar County Population Impact Control Unit. If the Judge approves their release, these individuals may be moved to nearby Substance Treatment Facilities and housing programs for ongoing support after their release from custody.
Who is eligible for pretrial diversion in Texas?
To qualify for Pretrial Diversion in Texas, the individual must have no prior convictions and be a first-time offender. The offense should not be serious or violent, and should be classified as a low-level crime.
Who is most likely to be offered pretrial diversion?
Pretrial diversion programs are typically designed for non-violent misdemeanors. If a criminal charge is for a serious or violent felony offense, the courts often view it as too risky to offer diversion. Most diversion programs include counseling and treatment as part of the process.