Bill > A05492

This bill establishes a judicial diversion program specifically designed for young defendants under the age of twenty-four charged with non-violent felonies or misdemeanors. The program allows eligible defendants to participate in a job training program administered by the labor department for sixteen months as an alternative to traditional criminal prosecution. Participants must agree to court-mandated conditions, including job training participation, periodic court appearances, and refraining from criminal behavior. Defendants typically must enter a guilty plea, though exceptions exist for cases with potential severe collateral consequences. After successfully completing the program, participants may have their charges dismissed, potentially withdraw their guilty plea, or receive alternative sentencing like probation. The bill excludes certain defendants with prior violent felony convictions or specific serious criminal histories, though prosecutors can consent to program participation in some cases. The court maintains jurisdiction throughout the program, monitoring participant progress and having the ability to require court appearances. The judicial diversion program aims to provide young offenders with job skills and an opportunity for rehabilitation while offering an alternative to traditional criminal justice processing.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5492