Some New York City teenagers arrested on low-level charges may soon get their cases dropped without even going to court, if they complete community service or educational programs.

The Manhattan and Brooklyn district attorneys and a New York Police Department deputy commissioner said Tuesday the experiment could start next month in two police precincts, in Harlem and Brooklyn’s Brownsville area.

The aim is to give teens guidance but spare them court cases, and to conserve court and police resources.

Authorities say 16-and-17-year-olds without prior arrests will be eligible if arrested on such non-violent misdemeanor charges as graffiti-writing and shoplifting.

Now, such cases often get dismissed after arraignments and a period of avoiding re-arrest. In the new program, prosecutors could close cases before any court appearances, if teens finished required programs.

(AP)