Under the newly implemented Restorative Justice program, Ankeny minors arrested for underage drinking may now have charges wiped clean from their records in exchange for community service or counseling.

Story County has a similar program called “Creative Criminal Justice” for a variety of minor offenses that has been in effect for several years, said ISU Director of Public Safety Jerry Stewart.

“Overall, I think it is a valuable program,” Stewart said. “It’s been very beneficial for Story County.”

Program Coordinator Steven Fields said the program officially started Tuesday night with the first of two rounds of counseling sessions with six participants and their accompanying adults.

“It was a very successful training session,” Fields said. “We’ve had 16 referrals since the program has started, and the majority of those have signed up for class.”

John Evers, Ankeny police lieutenant, said officers have the option of referring underage drinkers to the program based on the minor’s behavior and previous criminal record upon citation. The offender then has the choice of contacting the program office within 10 days of the violation or paying the approximate $150 fine for going through the court system.

“We’ve had roughly a dozen underage drinkers take advantage of the program,” Evers said.

He said if the program is successful, it could be expanded in the future.

Gerri Bugg, Community Youth and Family Development services director for Ames Youth and Shelter Services, said although she believes the program will offer unique experiences, she is unsure about its long-term effectiveness.

“I think it would be a great program,” Bugg said. “Any time you can involve parents, kids and professionals, it will be a positive experience. It’s hard to say if it will work, but I think it will make parents more aware.”

According to the referral notice distributed by police officials, the program consists of five hours of discussion with a facilitator as well as a contract for completing community service.

A parent for participants who are 18 years old or a supportive adult for those who are between 18 and 21, must accompany the offender to both sessions. The cost of participating in the program is $100.

“The most important aspect of this program is the focus on family and community and how to repair the harm that has been done with the underage possession,” Fields said. “I think there is more of a focus on decision-making and hopefully making better choices with underage drinking in the future.”

Krista Benson, 18-year-old Ballard High School graduate, said she would take part in the program if she was in that situation, but she does not believe it will work in the long run.

“I don’t think underage drinkers will learn their lesson because it seems too easy,” she said.

“It’s just like a little tap on the wrist.”