State's Attorney Office - Juvenile Diversion Program | Pennington County

The Juvenile Diversion Program, which includes Teen Court and Truancy Court, is a collaboration between the Pennington County State's Attorney, the 7th Judicial Court, and local social service providers. It is offered as an alternative to court involvement for juvenile offenders ages 10-17. Teen Court is a volunteer youth program, and accepts volunteers 14-17 years old. Charges typically eligible for diversion include: Minor consumption/possession of alcohol Shoplifting Simple assault Disorderly conduct Disturbance in school Truancy Possession of tobacco, marijuana, or drug paraphernalia The following are some of the classes and other activities that may be required during the three-month program. Participants are responsible for all program costs. Scholarships may be available for families needing financial assistance.

• Property Offense and Stop and Think Classes, a two-hour class emphasizing choices and consequences.
• Community Service, juveniles work as volunteers in the community for a specific number of hours in either diversion-arranged projects or at other sites arranged by the family.
• M.A.D.D. Victim Impact Panel, juveniles attend a presentation by individuals whose lives have been affected by drinking and driving accidents.
• Tattoo Removal, juveniles wanting tattoos removed, can be referred to T.R.U.S.T. (Tattoo Removal Unified Support Team).

11/03/2025