pre-trial intervention

Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) in Mississippi is a program designed to offer certain first-time, non-violent offenders an opportunity to avoid criminal prosecution by completing a court-supervised program. 

PTI is a diversionary program intended to rehabilitate rather than punish. It allows eligible defendants to have their charges dismissed upon successful completion of the program, meaning they avoid a criminal conviction on their record.

Eligibility is not automatic and typically includes:

• First-time offenders
• Non-violent charges (such as some drug offenses, theft, or property crimes)
• No prior convictions or participation in PTI
• The victim’s consent (in some cases, especially involving restitution or personal injury)
• Approval by the District Attorney (DA) and the court

A participant may be required to:

• Attend counseling or treatment (e.g., substance abuse)
• Perform community service
• Make restitution to victims
• Submit to drug testing
• Remain arrest-free during the program

Program length typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the offense and local program policies.

• Charges are dismissed upon successful completion

• No criminal conviction on the record

• Possible eligibility for expungement

If a participant fails to complete the program (e.g., by being arrested again, not completing requirements), the original criminal case is reinstated and prosecuted as normal.