Diversion.

Existing law authorizes diversion, defined as the postponement of prosecution of an offense filed as a misdemeanor either temporarily or permanently at any point in the judicial process from the point at which the accused is charged until adjudication, except as specified. Under existing law, if a divertee has performed satisfactorily during the period of diversion, the criminal charges are required to be dismissed at the end of the period of diversion.

This bill would state the intent of the Legislature to enact legislation to strengthen diversion statutes to ensure they operate in a manner that protects the public, supports victims, and maintains accountability for individuals who engage in criminal conduct.