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New Jersey Fugitive Safe Surrender Program Begins

SOMERSET, NJ (AP / WCBS 880) - Officials say about 1,000 people surrendered in the first hours of New Jersey's "Fugitive Safe Surrender'' program Wednesday.

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WCBS 880's Levon Putney reports from Somerset

Offenders with outstanding warrants can turn themselves in through Saturday at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset.

Fugitives do not receive amnesty. But officials say they are viewed favorably by the courts, often receiving probation or reduced fines. They also may get job skills training and substance abuse counseling referrals.

New Jersey Attorney General Paula Dow says the program is cost-effective and poses less risk to law enforcement officers.

More than 25,000 people nationwide have turned themselves in since the program began in Cleveland in 2005.

Offenders with outstanding warrants can turn themselves in through Saturday at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset.

Fugitives do not receive amnesty. But officials say they are viewed favorably by the courts, often receiving probation or reduced fines. They also may get job skills training and substance abuse counseling referrals.

New Jersey Attorney General Paula Dow says the program is cost-effective and poses less risk to law enforcement officers.

LINK: Fugitive Safe Surrender New Jersey (Official Website)

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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