The author explains that over the past several decades, Canada’s penal system has undergone ideological changes. Such changes have led to a questioning of the traditional criminal justice system. New methods of penology have emerged that deserve discussion and evaluation. One such new method is the John School diversion program for prostitutes. The authors report on a quantitative and qualitative study designed to probe the socio-legal dynamics of the John School and its implications for working class, minor offenders. Data were collected as part of an evaluation study of the John School diversion program that was conducted between 1999 and 2001. The study revealed that although the Canadian criminal justice system had undergone tremendous change in the name of a more efficient and humanistic approach, the John School diversion program for male prostitutes was vulnerable to social, political, and institutional persuasions. The authors contend that, among other flaws, the diversion tactic of punishment fell prey to considerable class biases. The authors conclude by noting that although some offenders may be assisted by the diversion program, serious questions remain concerning the principles of law and due process. Notes, references