Extrajudicial Measures (EJM) & Extrajudicial Sanctions (EJS) Programs

As of April 1, 2025, we have amalgamated the John Howard Society of Peterborough and the John Howard Society of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton – we are now the John Howard Society of the Kawarthas!

Providing crime prevention services for over 60 years, the John Howard Society of the Kawarthas is a non-profit, multi service organization serving Peterborough City and County, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County and Bancroft. Through prevention, education, and interventions, JHS of the Kawarthas works with youth and adults through a variety of programs and services.

Please visit us at our new website here.

Extra Judicial Measures

An Extrajudicial Measure (or EJM) is a referral from either the Peterborough Police Services, First Nations Police Services, or the OPP. Instead of pressing charges, a police officer may offer a young person (12 – 17 years) an opportunity to participate in the EJM program at the John Howard Society.

STEPS
Police make a referral directly to JHS and then staff follow up with the youth and family to book an intake appointment.

Parents or guardians/care givers are welcome to be part of this meeting.

A contract will be created that will outline the steps that the young person is going to make things right in the community. The contract may include: a letter of apology, participation in a workshop or program, an essay, community service or restitution.

If the contract is completed within 60 days we will inform the police officer and they will dismiss your warning. However, if the contract is not completed the police may press charges against you.

Extra Judicial Sanctions

An Extrajudicial Sanctions (or EJS) is a referral from the court system. If a young person between the ages of 12 and 17 has been charged with an offence, the Crown Attorney and the presiding Judge may grant them an opportunity to avoid criminal charges and a criminal record by attending a program at the JHS.

STEPS

The court makes a referral direct to JHS and then staff follow up with the youth and family to book an intake appointment.

Similar to an EJM but if the contract is not completed the court process will continue.

For more information call/text Amy at (705) 927 1511 or diversion@jhskaw.ca .