Ten Young Adults Graduate from DeKalb County’s STRIDE Pretrial Diversion Program
DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston announced the graduation of ten young adults from her office’s STRIDE pretrial diversion program, which stands for Stopping Trends of Repeat Incarceration with Diversion and Education.
The STRIDE program, introduced in 2019, is a voluntary diversion initiative aimed at holding young adults accountable for serious non-violent crimes while preserving their civic and career opportunities. In previous cohorts, six participants graduated in October 2020, twelve in April 2022, and fifteen in July 2023.
“STRIDE allows young adults who make a mistake to learn from it without permanently damaging their future opportunities,” DA Boston stated. “We developed a program that reduces incarceration and interrupts the cycle of recidivism. Rather than label these young people as criminals, we have given them the opportunity to become role models and contributing members of our community.”
Participants in the program must be aged 17-24, reside in DeKalb County, and meet specific criteria, including being charged with offenses outside the guidelines for normal pretrial diversion or having prior contact with the justice system. They pledge to remain crime-free and weapon-free throughout the program while engaging in various interventions and educational opportunities. Successful completion results in the dismissal of charges.
Since its inception, STRIDE has graduated over 40 young adults, providing them with new job opportunities, increased self-confidence, and a renewed sense of civic responsibility. A ceremony for the latest graduates from the fourth cohort was held on September 30, 2024, featuring a keynote address by DeKalb County CEO Michael L. Thurmond.
“Don’t give up just because you made a mistake; you don’t have to live down to your mistakes,” CEO Thurmond emphasized. “You’ve got a second chance. Don’t waste it.”
The 12-month program includes requirements such as cognitive behavioral counseling, community service, civic engagement, and a book-based presentation. STRIDE collaborates with various organizations, including RED, Inc., WorkSource DeKalb, American Alternative Court Services, and Acivilate.
DA Boston’s Diversion and Community Alternatives Programs Unit aims to provide alternative solutions for non-violent defendants, enabling them to maintain employability and engage positively with the community. The unit is led by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Lisa Moultrie and supported by Senior Assistant District Attorneys Isaac Howard and Ashley Masset, along with Case Manager Tina Padilla.
