Pre-Trial Intervention Program

The Pre-Trial Intervention Program (PTI) is managed by the 2nd Judicial Circuit Solicitor's Office. The program offers the defendant a one time opportunity to intervene into his or her case before it is prosecuted and perhaps taken to trial. The program allows the defendant to be diverted from the normal prosecution process, enter a program of restitution, counseling and/or guidance, and return to society without a criminal record. In addition, the initial arrest warrant(s) may also be expunged from the defendant's record and admission of guilt is not required.

Defendants who do not present a threat to society, have no significant prior criminal history, and are involved non-violent crimes may be allowed this one time "second chance". The program cost is $350 and is strictly confidential. Upon arrest a defendant may make application to this program at the Solicitor's PTI office located in the basement of the Aiken County Courthouse. The initial application fee is $100 and if accepted into the program the applicant is required to pay the remaining $250 program cost. If the applicant is not accepted the $100 application fee is non-refundable.

In cases where it is appropriate to compensate victims for their losses, restitution may be required from the defendant before he or she can complete the program. PTI is a self-supporting agency under the control and supervision of the Circuit Solicitor's Office, and is supported through cooperation of several organizations (judicial, law enforcement and community service).