Direct Accountability & Diversion Programs

Direct Accountability Program (DAP)

Direct Accountability is an alternative to formal prosecution for adult individuals (18+) charged with eligible criminal offences who have been referred by the courts.

The program was introduced as part of Ontario’s Justice on Target Strategy to reduce court delays. It involves individuals being held accountable through community-based sanctions such as community service hours, attending programming, letter of apology and/or reflection, restitution, etc.

Participation is voluntary and individuals must be willing to assume responsibility for their actions and be prepared to make amends through the completion of the assigned sanctions. Once sanctions are completed, the referred charges are withdrawn from the court.

Pre-Charge Adult Diversion

Offers an alternative to the formal court process by providing community-based sanctions to adults (18+) reported having committed an offence.

Individuals are provided with the opportunity to participate in this diversion program based on the discretion of the referring police officer. If an individual comes into conflict with the law, an officer may choose to refer them to diversion as opposed to laying a formal criminal charge.

The goal is to reduce minor incidents of crime and to provide supportive interventions and programming to assist individuals in accepting responsibility for their offence while addressing the impact of their actions on themselves, their families, the victim, and the community.

Will I end up with a criminal record or show up on Police checks/CPIC etc?

  • While an active charge, it will show on a CPIC check; once the program is successfully completed, it will show as having been withdrawn/diverted
  • Upon successful completion of the DAP or Diversion program, charges will not end up on your record

How long do I have to complete the program?

  • Those participating in the Pre-charge Diversion program are given three months to complete assigned sanctions
  • Participants in the Direct Accountability Program have six weeks to complete their sanctions

How do I get referred, or how do I get someone else referred?

  • Referrals for the Adult Pre-Charge Diversion Program are received directly from London Police Services
  • Referrals for DAP are received directly from the Crown Attorney’s office
  • Eligibility for the programs are determined at the discretion of the referring police officer or Crown Attorney
  • If you or someone you know is in conflict with the law, speak to an officer or seek legal advice to inquire about eligibility for these adult diversion programs
Direct Accountability & Diversion Programs