A criminal record is life-changing, and can compromise housing applications, gainful employment prospects, college admissions, and student loans, among other things. These difficulties impair convicted offenders’ abilities to become productive members of society, which often leads to more criminal behavior.

So how can law enforcement officials prevent repeat offenses while still allowing people to contribute to society?

Enter criminal diversion programs. These valuable programs, usually geared towards first-time offenders, rehabilitate defendants, allowing them avoid a conviction upon successful completion of the program.

Studies have shown that diversion programs are highly effective in preventing [...]