The Pretrial Intervention (PTI) program utilizes national best practices of diversion programs, including those of the Louisiana District Attorneys Association, the National Association of Pretrial Services Agencies, and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, to provide a non-adjudicatory alternative disposition for defendants to reduce recidivism and. provides a mechanism for defendants to receive restorative justice without the stigma of a criminal conviction while making victims of crime whole.
The program is staffed with case managers who work with participants to develop an individual plan designed to address the underlying behavior causing criminal activity. The program requirements may include educational classes, substance abuse evaluation and treatment, anger management evaluation and treatment, mental health evaluation and treatment, drug treatment, community service, and restitution to victims. During the period of enrollment, the participants are required to remain arrest free and substance abuse free.
Applicants may be referred for diversion screening by request of the defendant or a recommendation from a family member, a prosecutor, a defense attorney, or the court.
All first time, non-violent, criminal defendants shall be considered for diversion. Other cases may be referred for screening by the District Attorney or his designee.
Screening includes: facts & circumstances relating to a case; criminal history of the defendant; the nature of the crimes(s) for which diversion is sought, the desires of the victim(s), the impact on the community; and any other relevant facts & circumstances. All pretrial screening decisions will be made without regard race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disabling condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
The District Attorney is authorized by law to charge a reasonable fee for participation in the program. Applicants will not be denied entry into the program solely because of an inability to pay. The District Attorney does offer a reduced fee or no fee for those participants who demonstrate an inability to pay.
Should the participant successfully complete the program, a certificate will be issued, and a dismissal, rejection of charges, or a nolle prosequi with prejudice is entered on behalf of the successful participant as to all charges included in the diversion.
PTI Program
Public Safety Building – S3
9048 Airline Highway, 2nd Floor
Baton Rouge, LA 70815
Tel. (225) 389-3428
NOTE: Any payments made to the District Attorney’s Office, including the PTI Program, must be made in the form of a money order or credit card payment. Our office cannot accept cash or personal checks.