Citation in Lieu of Arrest
A public safety officer can issue a citation in lieu of arrest in certain circumstances with their discretion. Circumstances in which a citation in lieu of arrest can be issued are;
Misdemeanors in which the offender does not pose a significant risk to the public
Traffic Misdemeanors including but not limited to Driving while Suspended, Driving on Expired License, etc.
Exceptions to a CLA are: Possession of any illegal substances when in the quantity of more than personal use. See Offenses Relating to Controlled Substances.
There are certain factors to be considered before issuing a citation in lieu of arrest. If any of the factors that follow are present, a custodial arrest must be made;
There are reasonable grounds to believe that the offender will not appear in court, or has a history of failing to appear.
The offender poses a danger to persons or property.
There are reasonable grounds to believe that the offense will continue.
The offender refused to sign a written promise to appear or refused to provide valid identification in the form of an Identification Card, Drivers License, or Fingerprints.