The Alcohol Education Program (AEP) is a diversion program created to divert first-time offenders between the ages of 17-20 charged with alcohol related offenses in Magistrate/Municipal (Summary) Court from the traditional criminal justice system. The program consists of a series of requirements designed to educate the offender with the hopes of deterring future underage alcohol related offenses. AEP is a state legislated program with oversight from the Circuit Solicitor. Upon successful completion of all requirements, the defendant would be eligible to apply for an order of expungement, which will result in the destruction of records regarding the referred charge.
Eligibility
- Must be between 17 - 20 years of age at the time of arrest
- Never participated in a Solicitor's Alcohol Education Program previously
- Referral from the Magistrate/Municipal Court who has jurisdiction of the case
Program Requirements
- 8 hours of educational counseling
- 15 hours of community service at an approved non-profit agency
- Attend the SC National Safety Council Alive at 25 program
- Complete any additional requirements assigned by the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office
- Complete the program within 60 days
Successful Completion
Once all of the program requirements have been met, the case will be reviewed for completion including verifying that no subsequent arrests/convictions have occurred. The referring court will be notified so they can adjudicate the case and the offender may apply for an expungement of the case through AEP. All fees associated with the expungement process are mandated by the State.
Termination
Failure to complete the assigned requirements within 60 days or being charged with or convicted of a subsequent offense while participating in the program, will result in termination from the program.
Costs (All fees are non-refundable)
Enrollment fee.....................…........................…............ $ 250.00
Education Counseling – 8 hours ................................. $ 100.00
SC National Safety Council Alive at 25.......................... $ 40.00
*** The Alcohol Education Program does not accept walk-in appointments. ***