What Happens If You Call the Cops on a Child?

Calling the police on a child is a weighty decision, one that should not be taken lightly. The outcome can vary significantly based on factors like the child’s age, the nature of the offense, and local laws and policies. Generally, calling the police initiates a formal process, shifting control from the parents to law enforcement and potentially the legal system. The police response will likely start with an assessment of the situation, followed by a range of possible actions. In many cases, especially for minor offenses, an arrest might not occur. Instead, police might speak to both the child and the parents, aiming to instill a sense of accountability and fear of future repercussions. The primary intent might be to document the incident and create a “paper trail,” demonstrating that the matter is being taken seriously. However, in situations involving more serious offenses, like theft, violence, or property damage, law enforcement involvement can lead to formal charges, detention, or intervention from child protective services. The key takeaway is that once the police are involved, parents lose some control over the situation. Therefore, understanding the implications of calling the police is crucial for making informed decisions.

Understanding the Police Response

The immediate police response depends on the specifics of the situation. If the call pertains to an immediate threat or ongoing crime, the police will respond quickly. They may separate the parties involved, secure the scene, and start an investigation. Their actions may involve:

• Interviews: Both the child and parents will likely be interviewed to understand what happened.
• Assessment: The police will assess the situation to determine if a crime has been committed and what the best course of action should be.
• Discretion: Officers have discretion. For minor incidents, they may opt for a warning, whereas more serious offenses could lead to arrest and charges.
• Documentation: Regardless of their immediate actions, the police will document the incident. This creates an official record that may be used if further actions become necessary.

Potential Outcomes

The potential outcomes of involving law enforcement are diverse and can include:

• No Action: The police may simply document the call and issue warnings if the situation is not deemed serious.
• Verbal Warning: The child and parents may be issued verbal warnings, emphasizing the seriousness of the behavior.
• Referral: The case may be referred to social services, mental health providers, or other support agencies.
• Arrest: For serious offenses, or repeated offenses, the child may be arrested and formally charged.
• Detention: Depending on the severity of the crime and local jurisdiction, the child might be detained in a juvenile facility while awaiting a court hearing.
• Court Involvement: Formal charges can lead to court appearances, where the child will have to defend the case, and a judge will determine the outcome.
• Protective Services Intervention: In cases involving abuse or neglect, child protective services might become involved, possibly leading to temporary or permanent removal of the child from the home.

The Impact on Your Child

Calling the police on your child can have significant psychological and emotional impacts:

• Fear and Anxiety: The experience can be frightening and traumatizing for the child.
• Damaged Trust: The bond between parent and child might be strained as the child may feel betrayed by their own parents.
• Stigmatization: Being involved with the police can lead to social stigma, which can be hard to overcome.
• Emotional Distress: Children may experience anxiety, depression, and other forms of emotional distress after police involvement.
• Long-Term Legal Ramifications: An arrest or record can have long-term implications on the child’s future, including education, employment, and personal freedom.

Alternatives to Calling the Police

Before resorting to calling the police, it is essential to consider alternative options:

• Open Communication: Talking openly with your child about their behavior is the first step. Try to understand the root causes of the problem.
• Family Counseling: Therapy can help address underlying issues and improve family communication.
• Community Resources: Many communities offer support services for families facing challenges with their children.
• Mental Health Support: If your child is facing mental health issues, professional help can be beneficial.
• Graduated System: Implement a system of clear rules and consequences to help correct behavior.

When Calling the Police is Necessary

There are situations where calling the police is appropriate and necessary:

• Imminent Danger: When your child is an immediate threat to themselves or others, call the police immediately.
• Severe Criminal Behavior: Serious crimes like theft, property damage, or violence require law enforcement involvement.
• Repeated Offenses: If the child continues with repeated destructive or illegal behavior, involving law enforcement may be necessary.
• Loss of Control: When you feel you have completely lost control of the situation and are unable to ensure the safety of yourself or your child, contact the police.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can parents call the police on an 18-year-old?

No, once a child turns 18, they are considered an adult. While parents can still call the police, the police are unlikely to intervene unless the adult has committed a crime. An 18-year-old has the right to move out and sever contact with their parents if they choose to do so.

2. Can kids call the police on their parents?

Yes, absolutely. If parents are engaging in abusive or criminal behavior, children have the right to call the police for help. This includes situations like assault, domestic violence, or any behavior that makes the child feel unsafe.

3. Can I call the police on my child for stealing?

Yes, you can. While this is a challenging decision, repeated theft, especially if linked to serious issues like drug use, might require police intervention. However, alternatives, such as discussions, counseling, or restitution should be considered first.

4. What if my child runs away?

For minors, parents should contact the police immediately. Police will help find the child, and if they have been placed on the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Missing Persons File, that information will assist law enforcement if they encounter the missing child. However, if your 18-year-old child runs away, police will likely not intervene, as they are legally considered adults.

5. Will the police tell my child who called them?

Generally, police do not disclose who initiated the call to prevent retaliation and potential escalation of conflict. The person who reported the situation can usually remain anonymous.

6. What can I do if I can’t cope with my child?

Building a support network and reaching out to family, friends, or community resources can be incredibly beneficial. Don’t wait until the situation is in crisis; seek help early on.

7. Where can I send my child if they are out of control?

Residential treatment centers are often recommended for troubled youth experiencing serious mental health or substance abuse issues. These centers provide intensive programs aimed at helping children overcome challenges.

8. What if my 17-year-old refuses to come home?

Open communication, exploring the reason behind refusal, involving a noncustodial parent and, if necessary, involving law enforcement are options for the parents, but there might also be legal options like a court order that may help resolve the situation.

9. Can my parents take my stuff when I’m 16?

Legally, property, even if given as a gift to a child under 18, belongs to the parents. Children do not legally have ownership until they are 18.

10. What alternatives do I have to calling the police?

Consider engaging community support networks, crisis response platforms, and other local services. Family counseling and other resources are often available.

11. Can I call the police if my parents are arguing?

Yes, if the argument seems likely to escalate to physical violence, calling the police can help prevent further harm.

12. Is it illegal for my child not to listen to me?

While disobedience itself isn’t illegal, severe or persistent defiance might be seen as incorrigibility. This could lead to court intervention.

13. Can a 14-year-old be charged with assault?

Yes, in many jurisdictions, children over a certain age, such as 10, can be charged with a crime and face youth court.

14. Can police interrogate a minor without their parents being present?

Generally, a child has the right to have a parent or lawyer present during questioning. If they request either, police should stop questioning and allow the child to contact them.

15. What can I do if my 13-year-old refuses to come home?

Call the police non-emergency number to file a report. Repeated occurrences of this could lead to court involvement. Consider family therapy to address the underlying reasons for this behavior.