Previously, participants were charged a fee of $500 to $700 to enter the program; the new flat fee of $50 reduces the cost by 90 percent or more
VANCOUVER – Effective Aug. 15, the City Attorney’s Office began offering participation in its criminal prosecution diversion program at a reduced price of $50 for qualified community members who have limited financial means.
“The City Attorney’s Office seeks opportunities to lawfully balance inequities that have long existed and repair imperfections in our systems,” said City Attorney Jonathan Young. “This equity-based change helps us avoid criminalizing individuals based on their inability to pay.”
Previously, participants were charged a fee of $500 to $700 to enter the program. The new flat fee of $50 reduces the cost by 90 percent or more and removes financial barriers that may have previously prevented participation based on an inability to pay.
For 20 years, the city has administered a prosecution diversion program that offers participants an alternative to traditional prosecution. If successfully completed, participants have pending criminal charges dismissed and avoid the consequences of a criminal conviction, including jail time and barriers to accessing education, housing and employment opportunities.
“The diversion program has succeeded in allowing thousands of first-time offenders with minimal criminal history an opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction by participating in treatment, staying crime free, and paying restitution owed to crime victims,” said Young.
Eligible community members are those who have previously qualified or could qualify for the services of a public defender. Individuals who need help determining eligibility for the program can contact Diversion Program Coordinator Debbie Lee at (360) 487-8508 or debbie.lee@cityofvancouver.us.
Information provided by city of Vancouver.
Also read:
- The I-5 Bridge is vulnerable to collapse, but apparently not that vulnerable
State leaders and Vancouver’s mayor warn about bridge safety, but insist it’s safe enough for daily use as they focus on moving forward with a costly replacement including light rail—despite decades of public resistance. - Vancouver Police seek assistance from the public to locate hit and run driver
A woman was injured in a crosswalk by a van whose driver briefly helped before fleeing; Vancouver Police ask for help locating the suspect and vehicle. - Vancouver City Council to host community forum on belonging March 23
Residents are invited to join Vancouver City Council’s community forum to discuss personal experiences, barriers, and new ideas for improving local sense of belonging. - 60th Annual Hazel Dell Parade of Bands returns this May
Twelve retired local band directors will be featured as Grand Marshals when the Hazel Dell Parade of Bands celebrates its 60th year with 120 entries and thousands of spectators. - Opinion: ‘This is not the best and most efficient use of the taxpayers’ funds’
Ken Vance critiques the announced $14.4 billion I-5 Bridge replacement, questioning funding gaps, the insistence on light rail, unaddressed congestion, and transparency from state officials. - Cost for IBR’s total project ‘most likely’ to be $14.4 billion
Washington’s governor committed to a light rail bridge across the Columbia River, prioritizing the $7.65 billion initial phase while sidestepping the full project’s $14.4 billion price tag. - Natural gas leak forces evacuation in restricted area in Vancouver
Crews closed multiple streets and evacuated about 20 Vancouver homes after a gas line was damaged by workers. C-TRAN provided a bus to shelter residents during the incident.
