Some D.C. Fugitives Will Be Allowed to Surrender Without Arrest

About half of the 1.2 million fugitives in the United States are not violent.

Authorities are spending $50,000 on the program. But it saves money, said Steve Conboy, U.S. marshal for the District, because every fugitive who surrenders frees up resources to concentrate on the most violent offenders.

Not everyone who shows up will go home, Conboy said. Those with histories of violence, child neglect or child custody issues are subject to arrest, as elsewhere.

In the District, public service announcements about the program will begin running next week. Ads will be posted on buses, and fliers will be passed out.

New phone and electrical lines are being run to Bible Way, which will house makeshift courtrooms and offices for three days.

Those turning themselves in are welcome to bring their families, who will be sent to waiting areas. Child care will be provided.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 1-3. A phone service with pre-recorded messages can be reached at 202-585-7233. More information is available at http://www.dcsafesurrender.org.