This paper describes a program in New York City that uses community impact panels to educate those found guilty of such "victimless crimes" as public urination and solicitation about the effect of their actions on the community. In the program, offenders participate voluntarily as a part of their plea bargain. Impact panels are made up of three volunteers from the community who discuss the offense with more than one offender at one time. Their discussion is facilitated by a trained mediator.

Results of an evaluation of the program found that almost 70% of the participants in the 16 panels, including 59 offenders, reported that the panels were worthwhile. All 59 offenders felt they had been treated with respect by the community members. The community members believed the panels had given them the opportunity to express their views and thought the offenders had learned that their actions had a negative effect on the community.