Authorities say nearly 1,700 people have turned themselves in so far during a "Safe Surrender" program being staged in southern New Jersey.

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The four-day event, which concludes Wednesday, gives nonviolent offenders with arrest warrants the opportunity to have their cases resolved quickly, often without jail time. It's being staged at Grace Assembly of God Church in Atlantic City, and has drawn people from across New Jersey and from other states, including California and Florida.

The program is staged from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with cases being adjudicated at temporary courtrooms a few blocks away. It's open to those wanted for nonviolent crimes or disorderly person offenses, including family matters and child support.

"Safe Surrender" isn't an amnesty program, but does offer favorable consideration from the court.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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