Youth Diversion Team
The Youth Diversion Team (YDT), formerly the Juvenile Review Board (JRB), is a community-based program that aims to redirect young people away from the traditional juvenile justice system by offering alternative, restorative interventions.
How does a case come before the YDT?
Youth under the age of 18 with no prior arrests who commit a a Class A, B or C misdemeanor offense are referred to the YDT Case Manager. Referrals are first filtered through the Danbury Police Department. If deemed appropriate by the Case Manager, the family is notified and given the opportunity to choose the diversion process.
Why choose the YDT?
If the youth and family comply with the diversion plan, they will not have to appear in court and the youth will not have a juvenile record.
Offers a meaningful alternative that emphasizes healing, accountability, and relationship repair.
Provides intervention services which may include counseling, tutoring, mentoring, substance abuse prevention, and community service as well as regular check-ins, all managed by the YDT Case Manager.
Supports youth in making responsible amends, helping prevent long-term involvement in the system.
Assesses and makes recommendations that are in the best interest of each youth.
“Through your YDT program, my son was able to make positive changes in his life. You offered us a guide that amid our daily routine, parents cannot see. You showed us the way forward when we felt that these types of problems have no solution. You made the problem that my son was involved in become a point of opportunity for improvement, not only for him, but your help and support reached our entire family.”