This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 11, Chapter 2, Article 11 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, which would establish a Veterans Diversion Program. Under this program, a county attorney would have the authority to prosecute, adjudicate, and treat defendants who are military members or veterans with mental health conditions related to their service. The county attorney would have sole discretion to decide whether to divert prosecution before a guilty plea or trial, although the program may require a guilty plea for entry and could allow for the dismissal of charges upon successful completion.

Additionally, the bill specifies that certain offenses would render a defendant ineligible for the Veterans Diversion Program, including those involving serious physical injury or death, domestic violence, and engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise. It also provides definitions for "military member" and "veteran," with the latter including individuals discharged under honorable conditions or under dishonorable conditions if they have been diagnosed with specific mental health conditions. The bill aims to create a structured approach to support veterans in the criminal justice system while ensuring that serious offenses are excluded from this diversion opportunity.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-722
Senate Engrossed Version: 11-366