Children before the Law, Communities Behind Them: Diversion Practices in Juvenile Cases at the Police Level in Sleman Regency

Abstract

The juvenile justice system places diversion and restorative justice at the center of efforts to prevent the harmful consequences of formal criminal proceedings for children. However, successful diversion depends not only on legal rules and law-enforcement officials but also on families, victims, communities, and the child’s social environment. This study aims to examine diversion practices at the police level in Sleman Regency by positioning the community as an important actor in restorative justice processes. The study adopts a socio-legal approach through interviews with investigators, parents, community counselors, victims, and other participants in diversion processes. The analysis focuses on the negotiation of interests, victim restoration, child accountability, and social acceptance following diversion agreements. The study argues that diversion should not be treated merely as a procedural mechanism for terminating criminal proceedings but as a restorative process involving the community in a meaningful manner. Key challenges include unequal bargaining positions, limited community understanding, and weak post-diversion monitoring mechanisms. Strengthening diversion therefore requires a child-centered approach that simultaneously protects the best interests of the child, addresses victims’ needs, and supports social reintegration. Such an approach can improve the legitimacy and effectiveness of juvenile justice at the local level.