Understanding the Connecticut Accelerated Rehabilitation Program (AR Program)

When someone is charged with a criminal offense in Connecticut, the consequences can be life-changing—even for first-time offenders. Recognizing that not all individuals who face criminal charges should be subjected to the full weight of a criminal conviction, Connecticut has developed a series of diversionary programs aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment. One of the most widely used of these is the Accelerated Rehabilitation (AR) Program.

What Is the Accelerated Rehabilitation Program?

The Accelerated Rehabilitation Program is a pretrial diversionary program designed for individuals who are charged with certain non-violent criminal offenses and have no prior criminal convictions. If accepted into the AR Program, the defendant is given the opportunity to complete a period of probation, after which the charges can be dismissed—leaving the individual without a criminal record from that incident.

This program is codified under Connecticut General Statutes § 54-56e and is commonly referred to in court simply as “AR.”

Who Is Eligible for the AR Program?

Eligibility for the AR Program depends on several factors, including:

• No prior criminal convictions: The applicant must generally have a clean criminal record.
• Charge must be eligible: The offense must be non-violent and not fall into excluded categories (such as certain sex offenses or DUIs under specific circumstances).
• Victim consent (in some cases): If the crime involved a victim, the court will often seek the victim’s input or consent.
• Public interest: The court must determine that the defendant is not likely to offend again and that rehabilitation is in the public interest.

It’s important to note that acceptance into the program is discretionary—even if a person qualifies on paper, the judge can still deny the application.

The Application Process

Here is a general overview of how a defendant applies for and goes through the AR Program:

1. Filing the Application: The defendant or their attorney files a formal request in court to be considered for AR.
2. Court Hearing: The court will schedule a hearing where the judge evaluates the application. Prosecutors and, in some cases, victims may speak.
3. Decision: If the judge approves the application, the defendant is placed under supervised or unsupervised probation, usually lasting up to two years.
4. Conditions: Conditions might include community service, counseling, restitution to victims, or other rehabilitative steps.
5. Successful Completion: If the defendant successfully completes all requirements, the court dismisses the charges, and no conviction appears on the person’s criminal record.
6. Failure to Comply: If the defendant violates the terms, they are removed from the program and the criminal case proceeds as normal.

Benefits of the AR Program

• Avoids a criminal conviction
• Promotes rehabilitation over punishment
• Protects employment and educational opportunities
• Can restore public reputation

This program is especially helpful for young adults, college students, and professionals who have much to lose from a permanent criminal record.

Limitations and Considerations

• One-time use: In most cases, individuals can only use the AR Program once in their lifetime.
• Not available for all offenses: Violent crimes, DUIs, and certain other charges are not eligible.
• Court discretion: Even eligible applicants can be denied.

Conclusion

The Accelerated Rehabilitation Program in Connecticut serves as a second chance for individuals who made a mistake but show potential for rehabilitation. It reflects a broader move toward a more compassionate and practical approach to criminal justice—one that values personal growth and public safety equally.

Anyone facing criminal charges in Connecticut should consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney to determine if the AR Program is a viable option and to navigate the application process effectively. Matthew Galluzzo is a former Manhattan prosecutor and longtime criminal defense attorney and resident of Fairfield County, Connecticut. If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in Fairfield County, you should strongly consider contacting Mr. Galluzzo to discuss his legal services.