Halton Youth Diversion Program:

Halton Regional Police Service has established a Youth Diversion Program that strives to promote and foster a healthy community by facilitating restorative outcomes in response to youth in conflict with the law through education, accountability, partnership initiatives and early intervention.

Pre-charge diversion is specifically set within the Youth Criminal Justice Act as an Extra Judicial Measure.

Our Youth Diversion Program is a community- based alternative to address less serious incidents of crime reported to police that have been committed by young people between the ages of 12 and 17 years old.

The Youth Diversion Program works collaboratively with a number of community resources to provide diverse multi-disciplinary support to youth and their families during a time of identified need.

The types of offences considered for diversion include:

  • Shoplifting
  • Vandalism
  • Property damage
  • Fraud
  • Take motor vehicle without consent
  • Assault
  • Possession of a controlled substance

A youth may be considered for an alternative to the court process if they meet the following criteria:

  • Are between 12-17 years of age
  • There is sufficient evidence to proceed with a charge
  • The youth accepts responsibility and is willing to participate in the program

Next Steps:

A designate from the youth office will schedule an appointment to explain the program and determine if criteria for participation have been met.

Parents and/or guardians are encouraged to attend with the youth.

Youth meeting the above-noted criteria enter into a contract with specified behavioral conditions which may include:

  • Curfew
  • Regular school attendance
  • Alcohol and/or drug abstinance
  • Abiding by parental rules and discipline
  • Community service work
  • Restitution
  • Written assignment
  • Counselling
  • Drug and alcohol education
  • Parental accompaniment to plazas and stores
  • Other conditions as appropriate

These agreements are generally set for a period of three months. They can, however, be extended based on individual needs.

If the youth successfully completes the terms of the program, a charge(s) is not laid. If the youth fails to abide by the terms of the diversion program, the agreement is terminated. The original charge(s) will be laid and the youth will proceed to Youth Court.

Contact Us:

For more information about the Halton Youth Diversion Program, contact 905-825-4777 ext. 5550. Specific extensions by location are noted below:

Burlington
3800 Constable Henshaw Boulevard
Social Worker: 905-825-4777 ext. 2308

Oakville
95 Oak Walk Drive
Social Worker: 905-825-4777 ext. 2224

Milton/Halton Hills
490 Childs Drive, Milton
Social Worker: 905-825-4777 ext. 2406