The League of Women Voters of Monterey County will present a free talk titled: "Restorative Justice: What It Is and How It Works in Monterey County" at an in-person "Lunch and Learn" Meeting on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.

Restorative Justice is an alternative approach to justice focused on repairing harm to victims. Proponents contend that the process produces a high rate of victim satisfaction, true accountability by offenders, and reduced recidivism. It is favored by parties from throughout the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, prosecutors, and the probation department, as well as elected officials.

The Community Restorative Justice Commission oversees community education on restorative justice issues and reviews and evaluates restorative justice needs. It oversees the partnership between probation, law enforcement, the judiciary and Restorative Justice Partners, Inc., the community based non-profit that implements restorative justice in Monterey County.

The event will include a PowerPoint presentation by two members of the Community Restorative Justice Commission. Panelists will explain how the program is serving the community. The panelists will be: Sand City Mayor Maryann Carbone, Chief of Probation Todd Keating and Assistant District Attorney Marisol Mendez. The Moderator will be Charles DaSilva, Programs Coordinator, Monterey County Jail.

The "Lunch and Learn" Meeting will be held at at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 490 Aguajito Road  Carmel CA 93923 

Doors open at 11:15  Lunch is at noon and Program at 12:30

Lunch costs $25 per person and payment is at the door by cash or check. Lunch includes grilled salmon, rice, Greek salad, hummus, pita bread, fruit and baklava for dessert. Catering by Chef Faris Nimry, International Cuisine of Pacific Grove. Reservations for lunch are required!