When people hear “jail diversion,” they often picture a free pass—a soft-on-crime loophole that lets offenders off the hook. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. This infographic will address the most common jail diversion complaints.
Jail diversion isn’t a ‘get-out-of-jail-free’ card—it’s a smarter, more effective approach to justice.
At its core, jail diversion is about acknowledging that some offenses are rooted in deeper issues like mental illness or substance use disorder. Locking someone up without addressing those root causes doesn’t solve the problem—it often makes it worse. Diversion programs aim to break that cycle by offering treatment, accountability, and a path forward.
Who Are Jail Diversion Programs For?
Many people in jail diversion programs are low-level, non-violent offenders. Their actions aren’t coming from a place of malice—they’re symptoms of unaddressed mental health challenges or addiction. Incarceration doesn’t treat these problems. If anything, it compounds them.
Jail diversion focuses on prevention and rehabilitation—not punishment for punishment’s sake. It’s about connecting individuals with the support systems they need to avoid reoffending and get their lives back on track.
Despite its benefits, jail diversion still faces resistance. So take a look at this infographic that unpacks a few common myths:
The Bottom Line
Jail diversion isn’t about being soft on crime—it’s about being smart on solutions. When done right, it creates safer communities, supports public health, and gives people a real chance to turn things around.
It’s not letting people off the hook.
It’s doing what actually works.
Interested in scheduling a demo with us to talk more about the jail diversion space?
Email for Jail Diversion Myth Infographic