Juvenile Prearrest Delinquency Citation Program

To qualify for the Prearrest Delinquency Citation Program:

• You must have committed a misdemeanor offense (no more than 3).
• You must be 17 years of age or under.
• You have no previous criminal history.
• You received a citation from a law enforcement officer.
• All cases are approved by the State Attorney.

The Prearrest Delinquency Citation Program provides the following:

• An evidence-based assessment that provides the identification of service needs
• Referrals to:
  • Psycho-educational groups
  • Substance abuse counseling
  • Individual and family counseling
• Case Management
• Victim and offender meditation
• Restitution coordination
• Community service
• Monitoring educational goals

You will participate in the program for approximately 3 to 6 months.

If you need transportation, a Transit Pass may be given to you free of charge (restrictions apply).

The Prearrest Delinquency Citation Program's model gives a chance to:

• Strengthen the family unit
• Lower referrals to the Juvenile Justice System for minor offenses
• Reduce youth delinquent attitudes and behaviors
• Create outlets for positive social activities
• Address minority overrepresentation (racial and ethnic disparities)

You will not have a criminal record if the program is completed successfully. Because no court record is created, there are no court fees and court appearances are not required.

If you fail to complete the program, your case will be returned to the State Attorney for review.

The following criminal offenses are not eligible for the Prearrest Delinquency Citation Program:

• Any misdemeanor that involves the possession or use of a firearm.
• Any misdemeanor that involves exposure of sexual organs or other sexual-related behavior (i.e. lewd and lascivious behavior).
• Any misdemeanor that is directly related to (or part of) gang activity.