Step 1
RCMP decides the case is the right fit for a restorative justice program. All parties agree to participate (victim and offender). Responsibility is accepted by offender in order to proceed.
Restorative Justice is a Diversion Program
KRJ works closely with the RCMP to partner in offering individuals in our communities an alternative to criminal justice. Together we bring issues and small crime resolution back to the community to create opportunities for healing and harmony.
KRJ currently partners with RCMP detachments in the regions of Castlegar, Nelson, Salmo, New Denver and Nakusp. We strive to ensure that the rural areas of the Central Kootenays have access to RJ services. Our service delivery with the RCMP shares a common goal: to address the harm resulting from crime, decrease the likelihood of a person responsible reoffending, and ensuring a positive outcome for the victim and community. We also seek to create new pathways for persons responsible by providing the opportunity for them to take responsibility and make amends.
How Do We Determine if a Case is Suitable for Restorative Justice?
KRJ is used as a diversion program at the investigating officer’s discretion. These cases involve young people or adults who are facing charges for theft, assault, mischief, break and enter, hit and run and drug possession. KRJ is also able to support referrals from the RCMP that deal with minor fraud charges and vandalism.
KRJ does not accept referrals for charges of major crimes, such as, murder, sexual assaults of any kind, domestic violence, and issues pertaining to them. These crimes are crimes of power. KRJ Facilitators would not be able to guarantee a victim’s protection and empowerment to fully participate in the process.
Deciding which situations to submit to an KRJ conference or forum will depend on the circumstances of the incident. The KRJ Coordinator will review all the conditions of a case and assign a Facilitator. Facilitators will meet with all parities involved to determine if the case is suitable for an RJ process.
What Can a Referring RCMP Member Expect?
Step 2
RCMP member fills out “Consent to release information form and referral form” to the KRJ Coordinator
Step 3
RCMP member receives an email from the assigned Facilitator with invitation to attend the forum with the parties involved.
Step 4
The referring RCMP member receives an Interim Memo from Facilitator after the forum with details of the forum and next steps for the offender.
Step 5
The RCMP member receives the Conclusion Memo when all restitution has been finished and case file is ready to be closed. KRJ strives to closes cases within a 1-2 month timeline.
The restorative justice process is voluntary and an RCMP member can contact us directly to discuss a referral.
Contact the KRJ Coordinator at coordinator@kootenayrj.ca
Together we can work towards a common ground.
Contact Us
Kootenay Restorative Justice Program
coordinator@kootenayrj.ca
C/O
W.E. Graham Community Service Society
Phone: 250-355-2484
Fax: 250-355-2389