MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

Can a runaway juvenile be detained?

1. Yes, they can be detained

2. No, they cannot be detained

3. Only under certain circumstances

4. Depends on the age of the juvenile

The correct answer is: Yes, they can be detained

The correct response indicates that a runaway juvenile can indeed be detained under specific circumstances. In law enforcement practice, a runaway juvenile is typically categorized as a person under the age of 18 who has left their home without permission or has been absent from their guardians for a significant period. When law enforcement encounters such a juvenile, they generally have the authority to take the juvenile into temporary custody for their safety and well-being. Detaining a runaway is often seen as necessary to ensure that they are not in danger or being exploited. Officers will usually consider factors such as the juvenile's age, the circumstances leading to their running away, and any potential threats to their safety. Although there are protocols to follow and specific state laws that guide the detention of juveniles, the option that confirms that they can be detained reflects the understanding that the welfare of the juvenile is the priority in these situations. In many jurisdictions, this detention may be temporary, often until the juvenile can be safely returned home or to a designated facility. The procedures surrounding such detentions are designed to protect the juvenile while also respecting their rights.