Which type of sanction targets petty drug offenders through treatment?

The option that targets petty drug offenders through treatment is pretrial diversion. This approach is designed for individuals who commit low-level offenses, such as petty drug offenses, and offers them a chance to engage in treatment programs rather than facing traditional criminal penalties. The fundamental goal of pretrial diversion is to address the root causes of criminal behavior, particularly substance abuse, by providing access to rehabilitation services.

Instead of going through the court process, eligible offenders can participate in treatment programs, at which point they may have the charges dismissed or reduced upon successful completion. This method not only seeks to reduce recidivism by promoting recovery but also helps to alleviate the burden on the criminal justice system.

Fines, community service, and restitution primarily involve punitive or reparative measures rather than focusing on treatment. Fines impose a monetary penalty, community service requires offenders to contribute labor to the community, and restitution mandates reimbursement to victims, none of which inherently facilitate treatment for drug addiction. Therefore, pretrial diversion stands out as the option specifically aimed at addressing the treatment needs of petty drug offenders.