The Dakota County Attorney s Office and the Dakota County Public Health Department have collaborated to form a Juvenile Tobacco Offender Diversion Program for first time tobacco offenders. The program offers youth an opportunity to attend an educational class as an alternative to court when they are cited for possession or use of tobacco products. Staff from the Public Health Department teach the class. The Juvenile Offender Tobacco Diversion Program emphasizes education and prevention in reference to this important public health issue. Tobacco Offender Diversion Program Description Tobacco is a highly addictive drug and can serve as the gateway to other forms of drug addiction.
Cigarette smoking is perhaps the most easily preventable cause of disease and premature death.
The Dakota County Attorney s Office and the Dakota County Public Health Department believe that there is an important and appropriate role for government to play in helping prevent youth from using tobacco. The Dakota County Tobacco Diversion Program is designed to give youth information and skills to avoid further tobacco use. The program is offered by the Dakota County Attorney s Office as an alternative to court to juveniles involved in illegal use of tobacco products. The program consists of a two and one-half hour educational class taught by staff of the Dakota County Public Health Department. First time juvenile tobacco offenders.