A child taken into custody for CINS or delinquent conduct other than felonies, misdemeanors involving violence, or misdemeanors involving a weapon may be eligible for which program?

• A. Detention
• B. First offender program
• C. Probation
• D. Deferred adjudication

Answer: (B)

Diversion for first-time juvenile offenders who commit nonviolent acts is the key idea. A child taken into custody for CINS or delinquent conduct that isn’t a felony, a violent misdemeanor, or a weapon-related offense can be directed into a first offender program. This program provides structured supervision, counseling, and services with the goal of resolving the case without formal adjudication. Successful completion usually leads to dismissal or avoiding a formal finding, helping the juvenile stay out of detention and away from probation. Detention isn’t a program but confinement; probation is a later supervision option that follows adjudication; deferred adjudication postpones a delinquency finding but isn’t the targeted diversion for first-time, nonviolent offenses. The first offender program fits the eligibility and purpose described, making it the best choice.