Dayton warrant charges and fees waived in December

All failure-to-comply Dayton warrants could be cleared this month if defendants take advantage of a judge's generosity.

Justice of the Peace Bill Rogers is offering to recall warrants and waive fees on more than 1,000 misdemeanor and felony charges if defendants surrender to Dayton Justice Court on Thursdays at 9 a.m. through Dec. 28.

"This one-time opportunity will assist in the resolution of those who need to get back on track with their lives," said Misty Edlefsen, court clerk.

With warrant fees waived and the additional charge no longer looming, said Edlefsen, the judge will reset the individual's obligations, institute payment arrangements for any restitution due a victim, and give the offender a clearance to get their driver's license reinstated.

If the warrant is only for fines and fees, the individual can contact Dayton Justice Court and get a fine balance that excludes the warrant fees. Fines can then be paid by cash, check, credit card or money order.

Edlefsen said letters were sent to the person named on each warrant, but if someone hasn't received a letter but knows they have a warrant, they too can take advantage of the program.

"I have a thousand warrants that are outstanding, and obviously this is a win, win, win situation," Rogers said.

"One, we get to clear the warrants; two, the individual doesn't get arrested and they can hopefully get their lives back in sync; and three, it alleviates a lot of the work for law enforcement out there.

"The court and county gains, the defendant gains and law enforcement gains. A lot of these people have dug themselves into such a deep hole, they can never get out of it. We are trying to give people an opportunity to do the right thing," Rogers said.

How to clear a warrant

To clear a warrant, appear at 9 a.m. Thursdays through Dec. 28 at Dayton Justice Court, 235 Main St. To get a fine balance, minus the warrant fees, or for information, call 246-6233.