Survivors FIRST Diversion Program

Overview

The Survivors FIRST Diversion Program is a survivor-centered diversion program designed to assist individuals charged with crimes who have a history of gender-based violence victimization. These survivors present unique needs and challenges that are not currently addressed by other diversion or court specialty programs.

Eligible participants will have their prosecutions placed on hold for 180 days while they relate to trauma-informed services through a community partnership with First Step. The program emphasizes rehabilitation, safety, and support while maintaining prosecutorial discretion. If the survivor actively engages with services and avoids new criminal charges, they may have their pending case dismissed. 

Refer a Participant for Consideration

WCPO Survivors FIRST Diversion Program Referral Form(PDF, 59KB)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where was the Survivors First program created?

The Survivors FIRST diversion program is a King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office –YWCA collaboration that was launched in 2019 in Seattle, Washington. It connects survivors of gender-based violence to culturally appropriate, trauma-informed services, often diverting them from criminal charges. WCPO has been given permission by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office’s to use the name Survivors FIRST for its program. We would like to thank King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion, the Chair of their Domestic Violence Unit, David Martin and their local provider, Doris O’Neal, of the YWCA.

2. Why is there a need for this program?
Many people facing criminal charges are also past survivors of abuse. Research shows 75–90% of incarcerated women have experienced victimization, which often contributes to their justice involvement. This program aims to break that cycle by connecting survivors with trauma‑informed support. It is tailored to Wayne County and modeled after successful programs in other jurisdictions.

3. Who is this program for?
It serves individuals with a history of gender‑based violence, no felony record, and current misdemeanor or qualifying felony charges from the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. WCPO has full discretion in determining eligibility, which also depends on available community‑partner services.

4. What is expected of participants?
Participants must complete application documents, sign a release for information sharing, and attend a 30‑minute intake meeting. Over the 180‑day program, they must actively engage with First Step services and avoid any new criminal activity.

5. What services will be provided?
The program is designed to remedy issues stemming from past victimization, which caused the person to offend. They will be provided with a variety of services through First Step based upon individual needs. First Step will determine what services are appropriate to each individual program participant. Examples of services include counseling, housing assistance, assistance with basic needs, safety planning, and connections with other services such as employment assistance and legal aid.

6. What is the starting date of the program?
Applications for the program open on November 2, 2026.

7. How does a survivor or their attorney contact the Survivors FIRST Program?