Is it illegal to runaway in Washington state?

Is it illegal to runaway in Washington state?

Is It Illegal to Run Away From Home in Washington? Teenagers who run away from home in Washington are subject to criminal penalties. The passage of the Becca Bill means that parents can put children in juvenile detention even if they have not committed a criminal offense.

What happens if you run away from home at 15?

Each year, many teenagers run away from home. Other teenagers are told to leave home by their parents. In most states, running away is not a crime; however, runaways and their parents or guardians can face legal consequences. Adults who encourage or hide runaways can be charged with a crime.

How long do cops look for runaways?

If there is abuse, then yes, you need to get away and tell an authority or an older relative. If you are under seventeen years of age, the police will continue to look for you indefinitely. So if you can go to a social worker at a hospital or a police authority if there is abuse, that would be best.

Can I kick my son out at 17?

In general, a youth must be 18 to legally move out without a parent’s permission. However, laws vary from state to state and these laws are not enforced equally. Some police departments do not choose to actively pursue older runaways if they are nearing the age of majority.

What happens when police find a runaway?

Depending on the circumstances of the runaway, police officers that find the teen may detain him or her and take the individual to a shelter or a holding facility at the local department. Others may take the youth to a homeless shelter or attempt to contact the parents of the child.

What do you do when your 18 year old runs away?

Call the National Runaway Switchboard 1-or 1-800-RUNAWAY, and leave a message for your child. Many times teens will reach out to this service for help or guidance.

What happens when you report your child as a runaway?

If the complaint involves a runaway, the police must immediately enter the information in COLLECT, the State Police’s computer database; broadcast it to officers on patrol; and include it in roll call announcements. They must also try to locate the teen and notify the parents if they find him or her.