Since 1971 OAR of Fairfax County has offered opportunities, alternatives and resources for persons involved with the criminal justice system. OAR’s alternative sentencing program is a means for alternative penalties in place of jail time for non-violent misdemeanor offenses. The program operates in cooperation with the General District Court, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office and the Office of Adult Probation and Parole.
The Alternative Sentencing Program diverts offenders away from costly incarceration, and others a second chance to those who have committed misdemeanor offenses.
In partnership with over 500 area non-profit organizations and government agencies, OAR provides opportunities for the performance of court-ordered community service. Community service sites may include libraries, parks, schools, emergency shelters, as well as social service and charitable organizations.
- About the Programs
- Community Service Restitution Program (CSRP)
- Prescriptive Sentencing Program (PSP)
- Misdemeanor Service Program (MSP)
- Community Service Restitution Program
- Prescriptive Sentencing Program
- Misdemeanor Service Program
There are three programs:
This is a pre-trial diversion program within the Fairfax County General District Criminal Court. CSRP offers adults charged for the first time with misdemeanor retail theft-related offenses such as shoplifting, concealment, false pretense, altering price tags and/or petit larceny an opportunity to perform community service in lieu of a conviction that may include jail time and/or a fine. A preliminary record check is done for each defendant before the first court appearance to verify there are no prior or companion charges. OAR staff appears in court each day to interview eligible defendants and to explain the program. Participation is voluntary, but must be approved by the presiding Judge and/or Commonwealth Attorney. The typical defendant is given a deferred sentence and about 4 months to complete 50 hours of community service. Once completed, charges are dismissed. If not, jail time and/or fines will be imposed.
This is a pre-trial or post-trial program within the Fairfax County General District Criminal Court, offering adult offenders with non-violent criminal histories community service as a deferred dismissal or as a sentence. Eligible defendants referred are charged with non-violent misdemeanor offenses such as trespassing or obstruction of justice. Referrals from Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court also are placed in this program. Pre-trial cases are dismissed when successfully completed; if unsuccessful, a conviction may be imposed including jail time and/or fines. Many of those referred post-trial have suspended jail time and/or fines that are not imposed if the program is successfully completed. The Commonwealth’s Attorney and/or the Judge make the final decision on participation, the number of hours and the date of return.
This program is for persons who are on probation for a misdemeanor offense and are required to do community service as part of the conditions of probation. These offenders are generally referred by probation officers at the General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations and Probation and Parole. OAR reports the status of these cases directly to the probation officers.
In each of these programs, OAR staff completes a full assessment determining skills, abilities and interests to make an appropriate placement that allows the defendant to successfully complete his/her community service. Staff also assess the need for any other services OAR provides such as clothing, transportation, employment information, and referrals to other agencies.
Education Classes
Defendants with drug or alcohol related offenses are required to attend a 3-hour substance abuse education class. If they are referred for a theft offense they are required to attend the 3-hour shoplifting prevention class. Classroom time is counted toward the total number of community service hours required.
About the Number of Community Service Hours
The required community services hours usually range from 10 to 100 hours. However, more or fewer hours can be imposed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and the Judge.
About the Cost
Participants in any of the alternative sentencing programs are required to pay a fee. These fees vary among the three programs. If a participant is determined to be indigent, the fee may be reduced or waived.
Please confirm current fees by contacting OAR of Fairfax County’s Alternative Sentencing Program at the number listed below.
For inquiries and further information:
e-mail: info@oarfairfax.org
web site: www.oarfairfax.org
