Penal Code

This section applies to the deferred entry of judgment reentry program and limits county reimbursement, requires resource consultation before implementation when extra county resources are needed, and allows certain agencies to seek outside funding. A prosecuting attorney may refer certain suspected offenders involving minor victims and physical abuse or neglect for counseling or treatment instead of prosecuting them, but must first seek advice from county social services or probation. The section does not apply to certain sexual abuse or sexual offense charges. A referred person must pay the referral’s administrative cost and counseling expense, subject to set fee caps and ability-to-pay consideration. This section requires notice and reporting steps before and during pretrial diversion for certain narcotics and drug abuse cases, and limits use of certain statements made in the process. The court must hold a hearing to decide whether the defendant consents to further proceedings and whether pretrial diversion should be granted.