What can a peace officer do instead of taking an individual charged with a Class C misdemeanor to jail?

A peace officer has the authority to issue a citation instead of taking an individual charged with a Class C misdemeanor to jail. This approach aligns with the principle of allowing individuals to resolve minor offenses without the more severe consequences of arrest and incarceration. Issuing a citation serves as a direct means of holding the individual accountable while still allowing them to maintain their liberty until their court appearance.

In many jurisdictions, Class C misdemeanors — which typically involve less serious offenses — are specifically designed to be handled through citation rather than arrest. This not only helps reduce overcrowding in jails but also streamlines law enforcement processes for minor violations.

While arresting an individual or providing a warning might be options in some cases, neither is typically necessary or appropriate for Class C misdemeanors when the citation process is available. Checking an individual's ID is not a resolution to the charge and does not provide any means for legal handling of the situation. Thus, issuing a citation is the correct and most effective choice in this context.