Diversion and supervised release are two methods for handling criminals. Various justice systems exist worldwide, and it is often observed that first-time offenders who are sentenced to jail may become hardened and habitual offenders. They may also feel ostracized in society, as they are branded as criminals, and people tend to label someone as a criminal forever if they have been convicted once. To avoid this labeling and to alleviate pressure on courts already overwhelmed with cases, practices such as Diversion and supervised release are becoming popular. While similar in some ways, there are also differences between the two.
Diversion
Diversion aims to prevent a person from bearing the stigma of being a criminal. This program is managed by jail authorities, police, and courts together. The only requirements are that the offender must apologize and provide relief to his victims. He is also educated to prevent reoffending in the future. Additionally, he must engage in community work for some time and refrain from contact with individuals who influenced him to commit the offense. Diversion serves as a rehabilitation program instead of sending the offender to jail and making him carry the stigma of being a criminal. It has been observed that diversion produces better results than if offenders were sentenced to jail. Once the offender fulfills his obligations, the court may take a lenient view and lighten the charges or even drop them altogether. However, if the offender does not comply with the requirements, the court may sentence him to jail.
Supervised Release
Supervised release is a widespread program in justice systems around the world. Also known as parole, the offender serving a prison sentence is released under the authorities’ supervision if he has maintained good conduct during his sentence. If he abstains from drugs and alcohol and does not engage in violent behavior in prison, he may be released on compassionate grounds before completing his term. Supervised release differs from amnesty, and the offender can be charged again if he engages in criminal activity once released on parole. The offender is under supervised release, and his activities are monitored at all times. If he breaks any rules, he can be held accountable at any time.
Key Takeaways
- Diversion and supervised release are two methods for dealing with criminals.
- Diversion does not require the offender to serve a sentence, while supervised release allows the offender to be released from prison before completing the sentence.
- Diversion prevents a person from being labeled as a criminal in society.
