Can an intoxicated person be released into a family member's or friend's custody and care?

Releasing an intoxicated person into the custody and care of a family member or friend is often considered appropriate under certain circumstances. The key factor is whether the third party is able to provide a safe environment and ensure the intoxicated individual is not at risk of harm. This option reflects the understanding that trusted family or friends can often assist in ensuring the person's safety as they recover from intoxication.

It's important to consider, however, that intoxicated individuals may not always be capable of making sound decisions for themselves, which is why the situation should be assessed carefully. The person receiving custody should be responsible and able to provide care, thereby minimizing any potential risks associated with the individual's intoxication. In many jurisdictions, law enforcement or processing agencies might have policies that allow for responsible release in such cases, depending on the specifics of the situation, such as local laws, availability of care, and overall safety concerns.

While other options might imply restrictions that could be seen as preventing this course of action, the reality is that a safe release of an intoxicated person into the custody of someone who can care for them is often deemed a balanced and responsible approach.