The bill amends Section 54A of Chapter 119 of the General Laws to promote the diversion of juveniles to community supervision and services. Key changes include the insertion of a provision stating that a referral to juvenile court for a child requiring assistance will not disqualify the child from diversion. Additionally, the bill mandates that any proceedings regarding diversion must occur after consultation with legal counsel. It also clarifies that information obtained during the assessment process is included in the considerations for diversion, and it establishes that the original complaint against a child must be dismissed unless a report recommends otherwise.

Furthermore, the bill outlines specific conditions under which a child would be ineligible for diversion, such as being indicted as a youthful offender or charged with certain serious offenses. It specifies that diversion does not prevent a subsequent indictment on the same charges in superior court. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the juvenile justice system by facilitating community-based alternatives to traditional court proceedings for eligible youth.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 119-54A