Lewis Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2018 Murder of Jessie Sumlar
Diversion Programs as an Alternative to Court
What is a Diversion Program?
The State Attorney's Office maintains diversionary programs designed to render speedy justice without involvement in the traditional court system for low-level offenders.
These programs provide victims with a forum to address a loss, to avoid arrest and prosecution of the defendant (in appropriate situations), and to bring the case to a conclusion as rapidly as possible in a more cost-effective manner.
Diversionary hearings are conducted by trained volunteers who serve as mediators or hearing officers.
These programs have resulted in thousands of hours of community service and millions paid in restitution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is deferred prosecution?
Deferred prosecution is an agreement between the person who is charged with a crime and the State Attorney’s Office. This agreement requires the person charged with a crime to complete all requirements in the agreement. Once those requirements are completed and proof of the completion is provided to the State in the time required, the State Attorney’s Office will drop the charges against the accused.
How do I get an extension to complete my deferred prosecution?
You may not have an extension of time.
I have been required to complete one of the following: Milepost, Anger Management, Substance Abuse Evaluation and Treatment, or Mental Health Evaluation or Treatment, but I live out of town or out of state. What should I do?
You may complete a similar program or evaluation in your area and provide proof of completion of that program or evaluation and treatment. Contact Milepost through their website (www.acfmileposts.org) or telephone number (800) 582-2799 to help find one in your area.
Once I complete the deferred prosecution and provide proof of completion to the State Attorney’s Office, what will happen with my case?
If you have no further violations of the law during the deferred prosecution period and provide proof of completion, the charges against you will be dropped or dismissed by the State Attorney’s Office. The case and charges will still be on your record; however, it will show that the charges against you were dropped. If you would like to have the charges removed from your record, you must have the charges expunged. For expunction information, including eligibility, visit https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Seal-and-Expunge-Process.