Time Running Out For 'Safe Surrender'

A program called "Safe Surrender", based at an Indianapolis church, is coming to an end this week. Its intention was to offer a safe place for nonviolent offenders to turn themselves in:

About 200 people have taken advantage of the program, in which people wanted for nonviolent felony and misdemeanor warrants can go to Messiah Missionary Baptist Church to report to authorities.

The church has been converted into a neighborhood community corrections center, complete with courtrooms and public defenders.

The program, which runs until 5 p.m. Friday and again on Saturday, could be the last chance for some of the 25,000 wanted individuals to turn themselves in and have a chance for a break.

The U.S. Marshals Office said those who don't take advantage of Fugitive Safe Surrender will be targeted in a warrant sweep and lose an opportunity for leniency.

(WRTV Indianapolis)