Tamarack is a diversion-based program focused primarily on assisting individuals access supports that will help address substance use and/or mental health needs that may have contributed to their charge(s). After reviewing charges for certain criteria the State’s Attorney’s Office may choose to refer a case to The Tamarack Program. Engagement with the Tamarack Program is voluntary and a participant may choose to have their case returned to court at any time.
The purpose of the Tamarack Program is to assist adults who are thought to have substance use or mental health treatment needs regardless of the person’s criminal history. Programming is intended to support participants’ access to appropriate treatment or other resources with the aim of improving the person’s health and reducing future adverse involvement in the justice system. Participants may engage in a restorative process if appropriate, following the broader Court Diversion purpose above. 3 V.S.A § 164(b)(2)
Successful completion of the Tamarack Program results in a dismissal of the referred criminal charge(s). If after two years the individual does not incur any further criminal charges, the charges will be expunged from their record.
To reach the Tamarack Program Coordinator or for more information about volunteering with the Tamarack Program, please email katie.kohnfelder@youthservicesinc.org or call 802.257.0361 x245.