Those with outstanding fines now have a chance to square things with the city of Greenwood without the risk of arrest.
The leniency program begins today and runs through March 31.
“Anybody with an outstanding fine that’s not already on a payment program needs to come in,” Police Chief Ray Moore said. “As long as they make arrangements on the fines, there won’t be contempt warrants issued.”
According to Mayor Carolyn McAdams, the city’s back fines today stand at around $2.4 million — $1.24 million of which are more than 48 months past due.
The leniency program has not been conducted in a while.
Moore said a majority of offenders on the court-approved payment program pay off their fines in a timely manner. For those who have gotten behind, the leniency program gives them a chance to get back into the city’s good graces.
The partial payment program was created because many people can’t afford a $500 fine, he said.
Those with outstanding fines can go to the Police Department, located on U.S. 82, or to the Municipal Court offices on Baldwin Road.
When people get on the payment program, they automatically feel better about themselves, Moore said.
“That way they don’t have to keep looking over their shoulder when they see a policeman,” he said jokingly.
• Contact Bob Darden at 581-7239 or bdarden@gwcommonwealth.com.
