A program designed to give those with outstanding misdemeanor warrants a fresh start gets underway next week in Flint. According to a news release from the City of Flint, "Operation: Fresh Start" will offer those with misdemeanor warrants the chance to avoid jail time and court costs.

The program will partner up the City of Flint, Genesee County, the State of Michigan and multiple community-based organizations to offer settlements of minor infractions, help participants apply for a driver's license, find assistance for health and human services, employment opportunities and continuing education advice.

In the news release, Flint Police Chief James Tolbert said "the failure to address these violations has resulted in warrants being issued and driver responsibility fines being levied. These warrants affect an individual's ability to become employed and their ability to seek employment and to provide financially for their families. Given these pressures, there is a high probability that criminal conduct can occur." Tolbert said he recognized the need for the program when learning of all the city's outstanding warrants.

People who live in the zip codes 48501 and 48502 can show up from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Monday, July 28th at the Hubbard building on the University of Michigan-Flint campus. They need to bring a valid photo ID with their current address showing they live in those zip codes. Residents with felony warrants or misdemeanor warrants for child support, driving under the influence and related offenses are not eligible.

There are plans for future events for other zip codes within the city.

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