New program diverts arrestees from court to classroom

A new effort that combines the efforts of the Broward State Attorney, the Broward Public Defender and Broward College will put first-time offenders in the classroom instead of the courtroom.

The Court to College Diversion Program offers first-time offenders charged with a third-degree felony or less to have their case diverted. If the victim and the offender agree, free tuition will prepare them for certification to work in skilled, high-demand industries.

Broward College will provide free tuition, books, certification and test costs for both offenders and victims to get credentialed for working in marine electrical, automotive service and transportation.

– Anne Geggis, Florida Politics