February 26, 2026

Today marks the launch of a new pre-trial supervision initiative serving first-time, low-level, non-violent felony defendants in Franklin County. P.I.V.O.T. stands for Providing Individuals Valuable Opportunities for Transformation. The program functions as a preventative approach to recidivism by providing structured accountability, stabilization services, and equitable access to resources while cases move through the court system. P.I.V.O.T. is not a diversion program but rather a pre-trial supervision program available to individuals while their case progresses through the adult felony system.

Twelve participants will receive individualized case management from a full-time Program Manager. Participants remain in the program for the duration of their pre-trial supervision, typically 9 to 12 months, receiving up to a year of services based on case length and need.

Commissioner Kevin L. Boyce, who will speak to the inaugural cohort today, offered, “this pilot program will give first time, non-violent felony offenders the chance to pivot their life. With a structured opportunity to engage in education, mentorship, and skill-building, participants will be offered a new pathway toward a better future.”

Participants in the program are assigned to Judge Jaiza Page’s docket. Central to the program is Thinking for a Change (T4C), a nationally recognized, evidence-based cognitive–behavioral curriculum developed by the National Institute of Corrections.

Judge Page, Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, said “a central element of P.I.V.O.T. is early intervention during the pre-trial phase, aimed at reducing the barriers that contribute to thinking errors. By addressing these challenges early, the program promotes better decision-making and decreases the likelihood of new offenses both while individuals await trial and after their cases are resolved. This innovative, first-of-its-kind initiative responds to the distinct needs of defendants while also serving the broader interests of the community. I am proud to partner with Commissioner Boyce on this pilot program.”

The program was funded through a $150,000 Targeted Community Alternatives to Prison (TCAP) grant awarded by the Franklin County Justice Policy and Programs (JPP) office.