Merrimack County Adult Diversion and Pretrial Services - Concord, NH

Merrimack County Adult Diversion and Pretrial Services

Alternatives to Incarceration and Prosecution

Merrimack County Adult Diversion and Pretrial Services, located on North Main Street in Concord, operates as a critical component of the county's criminal justice system. The agency manages two distinct but complementary programs designed to reduce recidivism and alleviate overcrowding in correctional facilities. Pretrial Services provides supervision for individuals awaiting trial, serving as an alternative to preventive detention while ensuring community safety and court appearance. Adult Diversion offers a voluntary path for eligible offenders to avoid a permanent criminal record by fulfilling specific accountability contracts. These programs utilize evidence-based practices, including the Ohio Risk Assessment System (ORAS), to tailor supervision and support to the individual needs of participants.

• Pretrial Supervision: Monitors compliance with bail conditions, including drug testing, check-ins, and electronic monitoring for defendants released by the court.
• Adult Diversion Program: Allows participants to avoid prosecution and conviction by completing community service, restitution, and educational requirements.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing: Conducts random urinalysis and substance use screenings to ensure sobriety and compliance with court orders.
• Educational Programming: Offers courses such as the First-time Alcohol and Substance Training (FAST) and parenting classes to address underlying behavioral issues.

Eligibility and Case Management

Referrals to these programs typically come from the County Attorney's Office, local police departments, or the courts. Participants in the Diversion program must accept responsibility for their actions and sign a contract outlining their obligations. Successful completion results in the dismissal of charges, providing a second chance for offenders to remain productive members of society. The agency also collaborates with community providers to offer mental health counseling and substance use treatment referrals. By balancing accountability with rehabilitation, the department strives to improve public safety outcomes across Merrimack County.