Restorative Substance Treatment Opportunity Program (R-STOP)

About the Program

The Restorative Substance Treatment Opportunity Program (R-STOP) program is a diversion program that provides:

A response to school and other related substance abuse policy offenders
A structured meeting with youth, their parents, and other parties as appropriate
Offender accountability through a Court Diversion Agreement

Program Advantages

Advantages to the program include:

Offender accountability without formal criminal charges
Juvenile Court Service Unit-monitored agreement
Substance Abuse Screening (SASSI) for all offenders (assessment for chemical dependency)
Random urine screens are a part of the agreement which provides accountability

Referral Process

School Resource Officer, school personnel, or other individuals may refer the offender to Juvenile Court Service Unit for an intake screen. A petitioner is needed.
The case is evaluated by an Intake Officer for appropriateness of diversion.

Agreement Phase

The Diversion Officer schedules a meeting with parties involved
A meeting is held and if an agreement is reached, the diversion process continues

Restorative Phase

Successful completion of agreement leads to a successful resolution of offense
Unsuccessful completion of agreement leads to a formal charge and adjudication

Tips

Below are some tips for parents/guardians who think their child may be involved in substance abuse (this includes alcohol and tobacco in addition to illegal drugs):

Give children guidance, support, and clear, enforceable limits.
Listen carefully, because our children don't always tell us directly what we need to know.
Keep communication open and ongoing.
Be a positive role model because children will follow your example.
Teach your child what is important in your family.
Meet the parents of your child's friends and find ways to communicate with and support each other.
Continue to communicate with your children even though they may say things that hurt you.
Determine the line between being a parent and being a friend. There must be a clear distinction for your children.
Encourage involvement in healthful activities.
Consistency and follow-through are critical. You are the role model for your children, and they need to know you mean what you say.
Educate yourself about the risks for your child with violence and alcohol, tobacco, vaping, and other drug use.
Don't hesitate to seek help. We need each other.