Diversion Programs

Teen Court: 

Teen Court is a program coordinated by Scott Gage in which some juveniles charged with certain minor crimes are tried and convicted by their peers, instead of appearing in Juvenile Court in front of Judge Warren. Teen Court only takes diverted delinquency cases referred by Juvenile Court officers. In Teen Court, the “attorneys” are juveniles that volunteer from throughout the community.  The “jury” is made up of juveniles as well.  However, the juveniles that serve as jurors are juveniles that are in the teen court program and have already been tried by a jury of their peers. The sentences handed down are binding, and participants are required to carry out any and all sentencing recommendations. Law students, lawyers and other key individuals from within the community are often invited to serve as “judges” in Teen Court trials.

Online Diversion Programs:

Online diversion programs are utilized by the Juvenile Court for delinquency cases involving

Juveniles’ who have charges consisting of alcohol and marijuana misuse and shoplifting and conflict resolution. All classes are offered through 3^rd Millennium Classrooms or National Association for Shoplifting Prevention. Fees range from $50-$75 per class.   Parents are allowed and encouraged to take the same class as their children at no additional cost.

Chuan Fa America Arkansas:

Chuan Fa America Arkansas is a Non-Profit Martial Arts school located in Fayetteville.  Their goal is teaching realistic self-defense to men, women and children through the Martial Art of Kenpo.  Their main focus is defense, but there is also an emphasis on body conditioning, cardio, flexibility, and mental toughness.  Not only will a person learn to protect themselves and others, but they will get in shape while doing it.  Classes are free and are taught at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office by Sensei Shawn Wilson. 

Truancy Teen Court: (Coming Soon)

Truancy Teen Court will be established for juveniles to appear in front of their peers, rather than having a court case filed against them and having to appear in front of Judge Warren.  This court will only hear cases dealing with school truancy.  A Family In Need of Services (FINS) affidavit for truancy issues will have been filed by either the school or a parent and this program will give the juvenile an opportunity to rectify the situation with an out of court diversionary program instead being referred back to the Court for a formal adjudication.

Washington County Juvenile Court Art Initiative: 

The Art Initiative is where any youth, eighteen or younger, can grow their artistic talent and help decorate the Court.  Applicants submit artwork inspired by different quotes.  These youth will have the opportunity to participate in three art workshops guided by local artist, Olivia Trimble.  Their artwork will be submitted and reviewed by Ms. Trimble.  Selected pieces will be displayed throughout the Washington County Courthouse Annex.

 The Art Experience is a unique 501c3 nonprofit community organization serving the NWA region.  They provide art therapy as well as therapeutic art experiences to adults and children in a safe and supportive environment.   Art therapy classes are taught by Joann Kaminsky, a licensed art therapist.  Art Therapy is used to improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, and reduce and resolve conflicts and distress.  The process brings to life images of home, resilience and possibilities that give fresh perspectives to the most difficult situations.  The Art Experience included collage, drawing, painting, and sculpting.

Programs include: 

                Pathfinders:

                                Girls age 13 to 17

                                Six week program beginning September 16

                                Fridays 4:30-6:00

                Trailblazers:

                                Boys age 13 to 16

                Art Works:

                                Children with chronic illness

                Pages of Honor:

                                Veterans dealing with PTSD

                Expressions:

                                Adults