CATS Second Chances Through Education & Accountability
A Second Chance
The CATS Program is designed to provide second chances for individuals facing minor legal offenses in Russell County.
Instead of going through the traditional court process, eligible participants can complete diversion programs focused on rehabilitation, education, and accountability. These programs allow individuals to resolve their cases while gaining valuable life skills—without the burden of a permanent conviction.
Traffic Violation Diversion (CATS Traffic Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals charged with minor traffic violations.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online driver safety course instead of appearing in court.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Truancy Diversion (CATS Truancy Program)
Who It’s For:
Students facing truancy charges.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online truancy course instead of appearing in court.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Underage Drinking Prevention (CATS Underage Drinking Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals facing underage alcohol-related charges.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online alcohol awareness course.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Anger Management Diversion (CATS Anger Management Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals charged with minor anger-related offenses.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online anger management course.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Substance Abuse Diversion (CATS Substance Abuse Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals facing minor substance-related offenses.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online drug and alcohol education course.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Shoplifting Prevention (CATS Shoplifting Diversion Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals charged with first-time shoplifting offenses.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online theft education course.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Hunting Violations Diversion (CATS Hunting Violations Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals charged with minor hunting-related offenses.
How It Works:
Participants complete an online hunting regulations and safety course.
Outcome:
Successful completion results in charge dismissal.
Cold Check Restitution Program (CATS Bad Check Program)
Who It’s For:
Individuals who have written bad checks.
How It Works:
Offenders must pay restitution to merchants and complete financial responsibility training.
Outcome:
Avoids prosecution by repaying the check amount and administrative fees.