The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic search of the literature for studies that assess the effectiveness of post-booking and post-incarceration diversion programs in North America. The results of this review were then synthesized using methodology for evaluating the evidence of effectiveness. Forty-three articles were identified: 41 for the United States and two for Canada. Diversion programs exist at multiple levels within the criminal justice process, and likewise, have variations in their effectiveness for each of the desired outcomes evaluated, as well as in their breadth of research support. Diversion programs should be implemented as a system made up of various programs at all criminal justice levels.
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