UP - Unleashing Potential:

In partnership with the Franklin County Municipal Court the Unleashing Potential (U.P.) diversion program was successfully launched early in 2022. Young men and women between the ages of 18-24 in case management with Think Make Live Youth (TMLY) Credible Messengers.

Young people who qualify are diverted to the UP Court, during which they work with the probation officer and TMLY Credible Messengers (case managers) to develop a 12-month wellness plan, consisting of employment support, getting stable housing, mental and behavioral health support, obtaining a diploma or GED, a driver’s license, any public assistance/insurance for which they qualify, parenting support, and other assistance based on their individual needs.

TMLY Credible Messengers connect with the young people regularly to help them successfully navigate community resources and meet the goals of their wellness plan. On the 3rd Saturday of every month we host engagements and fun events with program participants, partners and staff. After the young people complete the program the courts will expunge, drop charges and/or dismiss for the participant’s case.

Our Process:

Referral:

• Misdemeanor Cases: Defense attorneys, the Columbus City Prosecutor’s office, and judges will review case files as they are assigned and make recommendations to the UP judge and staff. For probation violation cases, assigned probation officers will refer appropriate candidates to the program.
• Felony Cases: The Franklin County Prosecutor’s office will review and refer eligible cases to UP at arraignment, prior to indictment.

Legal Eligibility and Assessment:

• Upon referral, the attorneys and presiding judge will determine whether entrance into the program will create an agreeable resolution. If so, the defendant will be assessed by a case manager and the case manager will make a recommendation on whether the defendant is suitable for UP.
• Upon acceptance, the defendant will sign a participant agreement and create an action plan, which can include health and public assistance appointments, job readiness, housing, educational support, and parenting/family counseling.

Participation:

• UP participation is usually one year or longer, depending on the individual’s need and progress.

Graduation:

• To graduate, participants must demonstrate adherence to their action plans.
• Upon graduation, the case will be resolved pursuant to the negotiated agreement (either reduction of the charge or dismissal of the charge) between the prosecuting attorney, defense attorney and the Court.