Office of the Fairfax Commonwealth's Attorney
Taking Root
In April of 2022, the office of the Commonwealth's Attorney launched the Taking Root diversion program, an unprecedentedly expansive diversion program run out of the Office in partnership with Opportunities Alternatives Resolutions (OAR), a Fairfax-based nonprofit.
To be recommended for Taking Root, individuals charged with non-violent offenses must have an underlying issue that has led to their criminal involvement. Participants receive an individualized treatment course, and can have their cases dismissed after successfully completing the program.
The services available to those deemed eligible for the program include case management, mental health assessments, referrals and compliance monitoring, substance abuse assessment referrals and compliance monitoring, vocation and education referrals, job skill training referrals, affordable housing, and more.