SB481 Summary

• Establishes a pretrial diversion program in the 11th Judicial Circuit (Lauderdale County) under the district attorney's direct supervision and sole control.

• Allows offenders charged with drug offenses (excluding trafficking), property offenses, misdemeanors, and traffic/conservation offenses to apply; excludes Class A felonies, violent crimes, sex offenses, kidnapping, and offenses involving death or serious physical injury.

• Requires participants to waive speedy trial and jury trial rights, admit responsibility in writing, agree to program conditions, and pay restitution if applicable; program records are confidential except for the admission statement.

• Sets application fees not to exceed $900 for felonies and $750 for misdemeanors, with fees collected into a District Attorney's Solicitor Fund for program administration and law enforcement purposes; fees may be waived or reduced for indigent applicants.

• Permits establishment of a Restorative Justice Initiative program and a Citizens Advisory Board; allows district attorney to utilize existing community corrections and drug court programs for supervision.