Which offense is listed as an example of discretion between citations and referrals?

• A. Disorderly conduct
• B. Minor In Possession (MIP) of alcohol or tobacco
• C. Traffic violations
• D. Public intoxication

Answer: (B)

Discretion between citations and referrals happens when an officer can choose how to handle a case not by arresting, but by issuing a citation or directing the person to a program or diversion option. Minor in possession of alcohol or tobacco is a classic example because agencies often have policies that allow officers to either issue a citation or refer the minor to a diversion or education program (such as alcohol awareness or juvenile diversion) depending on age, circumstances, and prior history. This makes it the clearest case of using discretion to opt for a referral rather than immediate formal charging.

The other offenses listed typically follow more standard processing paths. They are more often charged or arrested in a straightforward way, with less emphasis on a formal referral option as part of routine enforcement, so they don’t illustrate the discretionary issue as directly.