Carvalho: Conover's Reign Slashes Pima County Attorney's Diversion Programs

Jordanna Carvalho, former diversion program manager in the Pima County Attorney’s Office, has raised concerns over the drastic changes in the office’s diversion programs under Pima County Attorney Laura Conover’s administration.

According to data from the Arizona Prosecuting Attorney’s Advisory Council, the Pima County Attorney’s Office (PCAO) processed 1,315 adult cases and 321 juvenile cases through its diversion programs in 2018-2019. These community justice boards had a remarkable success rate of 94% for juveniles, led by 97 dedicated volunteers.

Conover’s 2020 election campaign focused on expanding these diversion initiatives. Many, including Carvalho, were hopeful for improvements. Carvalho, having led the Community Justice Boards (CJBs) and managed Adult Diversion Programs, looked forward to supporting Conover’s commitments.

However, Carvalho claims that Conover’s actions contradicted her promises. Carvalho described Conover’s administration as disinterested in the existing diversion programs, to the extent of consistently neglecting engagement with crucial elements like the CJB volunteers. This lack of support led to a significant decline in the effectiveness and scope of these vital programs.

The APAAC reports indicate a severe reduction in processed cases under Conover. In 2022-2023, PCAO managed only 580 adult diversion cases and substantially fewer juvenile cases. The number of active boards and volunteers diminished alarmingly. Prolonged prosecutor absences and overwhelming caseloads prevented thorough assessments for diversion eligibility, further hampering the program.

Carvalho’s departure from PCAO was precipitated by her inability to secure a meeting with Conover to address these issues over three years. She emphasizes that Conover lacked genuine commitment to executing robust diversion programs beyond campaign rhetoric.

In contrast, Democratic candidate Mike Jette is promising a revival and expansion of these diversion programs. Carvalho endorses Jette, urging voters who value alternatives to prosecution to support his candidacy in the upcoming Democratic primary.