Midland, Texas – On Friday, Nov. 13, Terry Johnson signed a one‑year pre‑trial diversion agreement that will allow him to avoid a criminal conviction if he fulfills the program’s conditions. The agreement, administered by the Midland County District Attorney’s Office, is part of a statewide diversion option designed for first‑time, non‑violent offenders.
How the diversion program works
According to District Attorney Glenn Harwood, the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure permits prosecutors to offer a diversion program and to charge a modest fee—up to $500—to reimburse the county for the costs of running the program. The fee covers the salaries of two administrative staff members who manage the program and one assistant district attorney who oversees each case.
Each year, about 400 first‑time, non‑violent offenders in Midland County take advantage of the diversion option. Participants may be required to complete community service, attend educational classes, meet regular reporting requirements, or fulfill other obligations for up to two years, depending on the nature of the underlying offense and the specific terms of the agreement.
Benefits of successful completion
If a participant successfully completes all requirements, the original charges are dismissed with prejudice, meaning they cannot be re‑filed. In addition, the defendant may be eligible for an expunction of the arrest and charge records, effectively erasing the incident from public view.
Should a participant fail to meet the program’s conditions or commit another offense during the diversion period, the district attorney’s office can withdraw from the agreement. The case would then proceed to the court, where a judge could adjudicate guilt and impose a sentence without a jury trial.
Johnson’s specific agreement
Johnson’s diversion period will run until November of next year. While the exact requirements for his case have not been disclosed, they will likely include a combination of community service, classes, and regular check‑ins, as is typical for the program.
Harwood declined to comment further on the specifics of Johnson’s case, noting that it would be inappropriate to discuss individual details beyond what is publicly required.
Why the program matters to Midland families
For many families in Midland County, the diversion program offers a second chance for young adults who have made a mistake but are otherwise law‑abiding citizens. By avoiding a permanent criminal record, participants can maintain employment, continue their education, and remain active members of their churches and communities—values that align with the county’s commitment to strong families and personal responsibility.
Local leaders view the program as a practical application of restorative justice, emphasizing accountability while also recognizing the potential for rehabilitation. The modest fee ensures the county can sustain the program without burdening taxpayers, and the transparent process helps maintain public trust in the criminal‑justice system.
Looking ahead
The Midland County diversion program continues to serve as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to balance public safety with compassionate, faith‑centered approaches to crime prevention. As the program expands, officials hope it will further reduce recidivism and support the county’s broader goals of fostering safe, thriving neighborhoods.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
