Seven first-time offenders recently graduated from the first anti-recidivism program through the DeKalb County District Attorney’s office.

D.A. Robert James started the program last year for offenders between 17 and 25 who were arrested on felony charges. Their cases were removed from court and into the program.

To qualify, each defendant had to make a year-long commitment to report to private probation, perform community service, undergo random alcohol/drug testing, abide by a curfew or electronic monitoring, pay restitution, attend 52 hours of behavior modification classes and enroll in school or a high-school diploma program.

The seven graduates all had their cases dismissed. They also may apply to have the cases permanently expunged from their criminal history.

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Tracy Woodard from InTown Cares (left) and Lauren Hopper from Mercy Care organization work with residents at the Copperton Street encampment in August 2024. 
(Miguel Martinez / AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez