DeKalb County prosecutors are trying a new program designed to keep some young adults who are charged with serious but non-violent crimes out of jail.

The anti-recidivism court initiative requires participants to adhere to a strict set of guidelines for a year — including probation reporting, an electronically monitored 10 p.m. curfew, random drug testing and mandatory school or employment — in exchange for having the charges against them dismissed.

District Attorney Robert James says he expects the program to help dramatically reduce the recidivism rate among these young adults who have committed crimes that damage the quality of life in the community.

A pilot program was set to graduate seven participants Friday who had completed all of the program's requirements. James hopes have 60 graduates a year going forward.

Tags: associated press, District Attorney Robert James