The Pre-trial Diversion Program (PTD) was created pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 15-18-80 as an alternative to the prosecution of offenders in the criminal system. Entry into the program shall be at the discretion of the Coweta County Solicitor General based upon the guidelines set forth herein.
In accordance with the conditions outlined in their agreement, individuals accepted into PTD will participate in an individualized program for a maximum period of twelve months in lieu of traditional prosecution. Participation in the program will be voluntary and with the advice of counsel if the offender chooses to seek such advice. PTD will occur prior to adjudication, and if the participant satisfactorily completes PTD his or her charges will be dismissed. PTD is designed for the benefit of the individual program participant as well as the overall criminal justice system for the State Court of Coweta County.
Eligibility Criteria
- The nature of the crime
- The facts of the case
- The prior arrest record of the offender
- Consideration to victim’s input
Automatic Disqualification
The following criteria will immediately disqualify an offender from participation in PTD.
- Prior arrests or convictions for the charged offense or an offense of a similar nature
- Prior arrests or convictions for crimes involving violence if the crime charged is also a violent offense
- Extensive criminal histories
- Cases involving firearms
- Cases involving strangulation
Eligible Offenses
- Simple Battery/ Simple Assault
- Battery
- Theft offenses
- Affray
- Disorderly Conduct
- Criminal Trespass
- Disrupting a Public School
- Underage Possession of Alcohol (on a limited basis because conditional discharge is available)
- Traffic Violations Bureau cases
- VGCSA
- Suspended License
- Driving Without a License/Expired License
- Suspended Registration
Ineligible Offenses
- DUI
- Crimes for which the law provides a mandatory minimum sentence of incarceration or imprisonment that cannot be suspended, probated or deferred
