Alternative Measures
"Alternative Measures" are defined as "measures other than judicial proceedings used to deal with young persons alleged to have committed an offence".
This progressive approach produced positive results, leading to SLCS and the local crown implementing the Adult AMI (Alternative Measures Program) in 1999.
Goals
- AMI is designed to provide first-time offenders (possessing nonviolent, less severe criminal behaviour) with the privilege of having a charge withdrawn upon successful program completion
- Provide a meaningful alternative to the court system, allowing the offender to make direct amends to the victim(s)
Program Activities/Structure
Participation in Adult Alternative Measures could include any combination of the following activities:
- Attendance at a Community Justice Circle
- In person apology to the victim where possible or a letter of apology
- Restitution – Direct payment to victim for losses
- Personal Service – Direct service to victim as payment for losses
- Community Service
- Referral to a specialized crime prevention program
- Referral to a deemed appropriate community resource program
- Donation to charity
- Research based essay or other piece of writing to create a learning opportunity specific to the offence
- Personal skills used to benefit community (home projects)
Qualifications and Application
Sworn information, an offence report submitted by police, an acknowledgement of responsibility by the first time offender and a request by the offender to be considered for the program is mandatory.
Applications are available through the Crown Attorney. The program requires a payment participation fee that is paid to St. Leonard's Community Services London Region (based on the offender's income and expenses).
Once the offender is deemed appropriate by the screening process, a plan of action is established to address appropriate consequences.
For more information about the Alternative Measures Program, please contact
(519) 850-3777.
