Diversion: Time for Youth coordinator David Jefferson, youth worker Lauren Martella and Leading Senior Constable Robbie Noggler.
ERIN PEARSON
A NEW Geelong-based diversion program has kept more than 100 at-risk youths out of court, according to its coordinator.
Time for Youth’s David Jefferson said the program had slashed a previous rate of three in 10 youths who came to the attention of Geelong police becoming offenders and ending up in court.
“Of the 107 youths we’ve worked with only two have further offended or gone back to police attention,” he said.
“We’re not talking three out of 10 any more, we’re talking two out of 100.
“It’s a huge buzz because no one wants to see our kids in court rooms or youth detention.”
Mr Jefferson said the state-first program worked with youths and their families to prevent further offending through “attitude change”.
Geelong Police Leading Senior Constable Robbie Noggler said the success of the program was thrilling everyone involved.
“We always see the negative when young people commit offences but to see them develop and realise what they’re doing is wrong instead of fronting court is very rewarding.”
