This bill proposes to amend current statutes by introducing a Veterans Diversion Program, allowing county attorneys to establish programs aimed at treating defendants who are military members or veterans. The county attorney would have the discretion to decide whether to divert prosecution before a guilty plea or trial, with the option for the program to require a guilty plea prior to entry. Successful completion of the program could lead to the dismissal of the criminal complaint. Additionally, the bill clarifies that this does not prevent other prosecuting agencies from diverting or deferring prosecution as permitted by law.

The bill also specifies eligibility criteria for the program, stating that defendants charged with certain serious offenses, such as those involving death or serious physical injury, sexual offenses, or engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise, would not be eligible. Furthermore, it defines "military member" and modifies the definition of "veteran" to align with the current understanding of service in the uniformed services, while making technical and conforming changes throughout the statute.

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