Philadelphia police stop some arrests to manage jail crowding during coronavirus pandemic

Philadelphia is the latest city to limit the number of arrests during the coronavirus pandemic.

Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said Tuesday that police will delay arrests for nonviolent crimes, including drug offenses, theft, vandalism, and prostitution.

According to the new guidelines, officers should temporarily detain the offenders to confirm their identity and prepare necessary paperwork. Once completed, the offender should be released. Arrest warrants will be served at a later time, she said.

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