Program offers ‘second chance’ to those with traffic warrants, misdemeanors

At 4:37 a.m., a thief or thieves used a hammer to break the storefront glass window and stole three racing bikes totaling a loss of about $15,600.Photo: Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office

During the month of December, Santa Clara County law enforcement agencies have implemented a program allowing residents with all traffic and non-violent misdemeanor warrants to receive a citation with a new court date, in lieu of being booked into the County Jail.

“Operation Second Chance” allows individuals to go to any Santa Clara County law enforcement agency and receive their warrant citation, which will require an acknowledged written “Promise to Appear” court date, according to the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office.

Felonies and warrants involving violence (including all domestic violence warrants), a firearm, resisting arrest or providing false information to a peace officer are not eligible for the program.

“More than 3,500 people have taken advantage of this program over the past decade and avoided spending the holidays in jail by self-surrendering,” the sheriff’s office said.

For questions, contact Sheriff’s Office Records at (408) 808-4717.