JERSEY CITY, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) – New Jersey law enforcement authorities have launched a “safe surrender” initiative that allows nonviolent offenders with arrest warrants to have their cases resolved quickly, often without jail time.

The four-day program started Wednesday morning and runs through Saturday at Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church in Jersey City.

As CBS 2’s Hazel Sanchez reported, hundreds of people waited in long lines at the church to ask for forgiveness from the law.

“Your charges will not be dismissed, but you’ll have the opportunity to work with a judge and a public defender and a prosecutor to have your matter resolved quickly,” said New Jersey Attorney General’s office spokesman Neal Buccino.

“It’s a no-brainer,” said Sean Jackson of Jersey City.