Update on changes to the BCJC

Hello neighbors,

As the director of the Burlington Community Justice Center, I wanted to share an update about some important changes coming to restorative services here in Chittenden County. Similar messages are being shared by other local community justice centers as we work to update all community members about the changes, specifically information related to Vermont’s Pre-Charge Diversion Program. 

🔷 What does “pre-charge diversion” mean?

Pre-charge diversion allows certain low-level, non-violent offenses (like retail theft, vandalism, or disorderly conduct) to be handled outside of the traditional court process. Each county in Vermont has a policy created by their State’s Attorney to outline the specifics for their area. A listing of policies can be found here: https://prosecutors.vermont.gov/resources/category/sa-restorative-justice-policies

Instead of filing a criminal charge right away, police or prosecutors can refer the person to a restorative justice process through a local community justice center. Participants take responsibility for their actions, meet with those affected, and complete agreements to repair harm — often avoiding a permanent criminal record while making real amends.

This approach strengthens accountability, reduces court backlogs, and supports safer, healthier communities.

🔷 What’s changing

Earlier this year, Vermont passed Act 180, which restructures how pre-charge diversion will operate statewide. Here’s what that means for us in Chittenden County:

▪️ Statewide standardization: Beginning in 2026, every county will have one lead diversion entity funded through the Vermont Attorney General’s Office. 

▪️ Centralization in Chittenden County: The Burlington Community Justice Center is expected to become the countywide hub for pre-charge referrals.

▪️ Transition period (July 2025 – June 2026): During this time, our local community justice centers —Essex, Burlington, South Burlington, and Williston— are continuing to handle cases as usual while we work with state and local partners to shape how the new model will look.

🔷What this means locally

▪️ We’re still here. The Burlington Community Justice Center continues to serve local residents and handle referrals as we always have. Centralization isn’t going into effect until July 2026.

▪️ Collaboration is key. We’re working closely with the Attorney General’s Office, other Chittenden County centers, and community partners to ensure local voices remain part of this work.

▪️ Uncertainty and opportunity. While we don’t yet know exactly how roles or structures will change, we’re advocating for a model that maintains community connection and keeps services accessible to every town.

▪️ Equity and access. The new system aims to make diversion more consistent and available to more people across Vermont.

🔷How you can stay involved

▪️ Stay informed: Ask questions and follow local updates as the transition unfolds. You can join the Burlington Community Justice Center e-mail update list here: https://forms.office.com/g/dq54gYvsqU

▪️ Share your perspective: If you’ve volunteered, been part of a restorative process, or simply care about local justice, your voice matters as decisions are made. We are sharing a survey to those who have been involved in the work in order to gather their thoughts on what we should consider during the transition. If you would like to receive this survey, please contact the BCJC via email cjcfrontdesk@burlingtonvt.gov.

▪️ Support community justice: Attend events, volunteer, or learn more about restorative practices. Our work relies on engaged neighbors like you.

Change can bring challenges, but also possibilities. Our goal remains the same: helping people repair harm, rebuild trust, and strengthen our community through accountability and compassion. 

If you’d like to learn more or talk about these changes, please feel free to reach out — I’d be glad to share what we know and hear your thoughts.

With appreciation,

Rachel Jolly

Director, Burlington Community Justice Center

📞 802-865-7185

🌐 www.burlingtoncjc.org