The primary function of YFS is Diversion Counseling. A diversion counselor adjudicates all juvenile criminal cases that are referred from the Department of Public Safety. The majority of cases are for first time offenders. This program is an alternative to the juvenile justice system. It seeks to intervene in the youth's life before things get out of hand.

Philosophically, we believe that kids make mistakes, and we can help them learn from their mistakes. To accomplish that:

• A contract is developed between the youth, their parents, and the diversion counselor, and an informal probation period begins.
• Other consequences might include letters of apology to the victim and others affected by the youth's behavior, community service work, anger management classes, or trips to local penal institutions.
• Sometimes as a result of diversion it is determined that counseling would be of benefit to the child and their family.

Our goal, whether it is through diversion, counseling, truancy intervention, or crisis intervention, is to provide help to youth and their families in their special time of need.

The School Resource Officer (SRO) serves as the department's representative on the High School campuses. Although he has an office assigned on the Rancho Cotate High School campus, the sole officer is available to youth, teachers and administrators at all the High School sites. The officer can be seen in a variety of situations, whether it is as a friendly shoulder to lean on or, when dealing with other issues on campus that require traditional law enforcement or fire response.

The purpose of the School Resource Officer is twofold. It frees the beat officer from having to deal with the myriad of daily complaints, concerns and questions that emanate from the High School communities. Secondly it allows an officer to be seen in a highly visible position on High School campuses where he or she can best interact with the people there.

Currently, the Department of Public Safety has one School Resource Officer.

To speak with the School Resource Officer about a non-emergency situation, call 584-2600 and ask to leave a message for the SRO.