di·ver·sion / diˈvərzhən; dī-/ • n. 1. an instance of turning something aside from its course: a diversion of resources from defense to civil research. ∎ Brit. an alternative route for use by traffic when the usual road is temporarily closed; a detour: the road was closed and diversions put into operation.2. an activity that diverts the mind from tedious or serious concerns; a recreation or pastime: our chief diversion was reading. ∎  something intended to distract someone's attention from something more important: a subsidiary raid was carried out on the airfield to create a diversion.DERIVATIVES: di·ver·sion·ar·y / -ˌnerē/ adj.

DIVERSION

A turning aside or altering of the natural course or route of a thing. The term is chiefly applied to the unauthorized change or alteration of a water course to the prejudice of a lower riparian, or to the unauthorized use of funds.

A program for the disposition of a criminal charge without a criminal trial; sometimes called operation de nova, intervention, or deferred prosecution.

The disposition is conditional on the defendant's performing certain tasks or participating in a treatment program. If the conditions are successfully completed, the charge is dismissed. But if the accused does not meet his or her obligations, prosecution may be instituted.

cross-references

Riparian Rights.