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SHORTSTOP® is a unique juvenile crime diversion program developed in 1980 for juvenile offenders and their families and culturally adapted in 1989 and offered in Spanish. As a cost-effective, comprehensive alternative to prosecution, SHORTSTOP utilizes effective, science-based models for reducing delinquency among youth with incorporated strong restorative justice plans. SHORTSTOP teaches the offenders to take responsibility for their actions through decision-making strategies designed to result in positive future choices. SHORTSTOP breaks the cycle that turns young people into repeat offenders by using three simple concepts: reach youth early; involve the parents; and use a graphic courtroom setting with legal professionals and actual prisoners. Additionally, through linkages with community partnerships, SHORTSTOP provides comprehensive wrap around services. SHORTSTOP is part of a system reform approach that collaborates with key justice stakeholders on Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative efforts in Orange County.
Juvenile offenders, 11-17 and their parents participate in several sessions held at night in a courtroom where volunteer attorneys, legal professionals and parolees dramatically present the "legal facts of life". SHORTSTOP teaches:
- Consequences of criminal behavior
- Value of freedom
- Accountability for actions
- Peer pressure
- Family communication/conflict resolution
- Awareness of drugs, alcohol, gangs & victims
- Positive future choices
- Case Management & Counseling
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