JUVENILE COURT OFFERS TRAFFIC DIVERSION PROGRAM

Summit County Juvenile Court Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio has announced that the Court will introduce a diversion program for juvenile traffic violators. Called the SAFTE (Staying Accident-FreeThrough Education) Program, juveniles will have a one-time-only opportunity to have a low-level traffic offense dismissed if they complete the program. The SAFTE Program has been enthusiastically endorsed by local law enforcement agencies.

“The Court would not have been able to create this program if it wasn’t for the collaboration with the Sheriff’s Office and the Prosecutor’s Office,” said Judge Teodosio. “We also received advice and approval from the Summit County Police Chief’s Association and the Peace Officers Safety Council.”

Juveniles are eligible for the SAFTE Program if they are ticketed for offenses that do not involve accidents and are low-level offenses such as speeding 20 miles per hour or less over the speed limit, running a stop sign, unsafe lane change and offenses of that nature. Other participants will be referred to the SAFTE Program by order of the Court as part of their disposition for unsafe driving, even though their case is ineligible for dismissal.

Participants who meet the pre-determined criteria must attend one class taught by a member of the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. The Court has developed an educational program designed to address the risk factors juvenile drivers encounter and their responsibilities while behind the wheel. Additionally, parents or guardians are required to attend a portion of the training.

Upon completion, the citation against them will be dismissed and no points will be assessed to their driving record. This also lessens the possibility that their license will be suspended and that their insurance premiums will increase.

Participants are required to pay $67 in court costs and a program fee of $25 before attending the session. They must also supply a $10 item for a baby that will be given to teen mothers.

“The SAFTE program gives young drivers a second chance and, hopefully, it will instill better driving habits after attending the training,” said Judge Teodosio.