Point: Michael Allen
The question of whether we should have more restorative justice in the criminal justice system must start with some analysis of what the goals are and is there a need. As a matter of perspective, the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office has two long-standing and very effective programs that fall under the umbrella of restorative justice. Those programs are our Juvenile Diversion Program and the Neighborhood Justice Center.
The Juvenile Diversion program was established by John Suthers, former district attorney and current Colorado Springs mayor. The program requires juveniles to take responsibility for their wayward actions and provides an opportunity to create a path forward, and it has proven to be very successful.