Admin What happens if a runaway gets caught?
Police Can Detain Runaways Running away is generally not a crime, but as just described, it is a status offense in some states. Regardless of whether a particular state recognizes running away as a status offense, police can always take runaways into custody. The options available to police include: returning them home.
What happens if you run away at 16?
There is no law that states a person under age eighteen running away from home is committing a crime. Minors who run away from home can be detained by police and returned to a legal guardian. In California, there is no legal consequence for a minor running away.
What happens to Runaways when they are arrested?
If arrested for criminal activity, the youth will need to plead his or her case with a juvenile court judge. Some young runaways may have an option to acquire a guardian to help out instead of a parent. If the young person is an orphan, a guardian may take the place of a parent to provide shelter, food and better opportunities.
What should I do if my runaway won’t return home?
Runaways who are fleeing an abusive situation and do not want to return home should tell police about the abuse. The police must report child abuse to a county child welfare agency for further investigation; emergency shelter might be available.
Can you get in trouble for running away from police?
Police Can Detain Runaways. Running away is generally not a crime, but as just described, it is a status offense in some states. Regardless of whether a particular state recognizes running away as a status offense, police can always take runaways into custody. The options available to police include: returning them home
Can a runaway get a guardian instead of a parent?
Some young runaways may have an option to acquire a guardian to help out instead of a parent. If the young person is an orphan, a guardian may take the place of a parent to provide shelter, food and better opportunities. In some extreme cases, the youth may have the ability to seek emancipation.