Youth Diversion, formerly known as the Juvenile Review Board, is a voluntary program offered to Bridgeport youth ages 9 to 18 who have committed minor delinquent offenses or display at-risk behavior at home, in school, or in the community that could result in a referral to juvenile court. We accept referrals from the Bridgeport police, probation, the school system for status offenses, and the City of Bridgeport’s Youth Service Bureau.
As part of the Restorative Justice Division, clients also have easier access to mediation and other Restorative Practices and interventions. Restorative Justice addresses the needs of all parties: wrongdoers, victims, and the community. This gives youth the opportunity to understand and repair the harm done to their communities by their actions. This has proven to be an effective long-term component of the Youth Diversion process.
The Youth Diversion Process
Each case, like every person, is unique. Below is a general overview of the process once individuals agree to start. Youths are typically enrolled in the program for about six months.
- An intake is completed with a staff member.
- A restorative circle, composed of youth, community volunteers, and victims, convenes. Victims may voice their feelings. Wrongdoers take responsibility for their actions. Community volunteers offer support and understanding. The circle also represents those harmed if victims are unavailable or there is no clearly defined victim. With staff support, youth develop a plan to make amends, such as completing community service or writing letters of apology.
- Case managers work with youth for six months, helping to link them to community supports such as counseling, mentoring, pro-social activity, and more.
- After six months, another circle is held. This close-out circle allows youth the opportunity to reflect on the process and see the progress that they have made.