Fourth Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Mark Mahon signs a memorandum of understanding Wednesday at the State Attorney’s Office that allows police officers to issue civil citations to juveniles suspected of committing a misdemeanor rather than arresting them. His approval was witnessed by, back row, Duval County Schools Superintendent Nikolai Vitti, State Attorney Melissa Nelson, Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams and the heads of the other law enforcement agencies in Clay, Duval and Nassau counties, who also signed the memorandum. By avoiding arrest, juveniles will have the opportunity to participate in a diversionary program, such as Teen Court. Nelson said the expanded policy will “keep youth out of the criminal justice system” and “today marks a win for smart justice.”