View Full Version : Runaways and the legality thereof
Townsend
2008-07-07, 21:11
What would the legal repercussions be in the state of Ohio if (this is all theoretical, of course) a 16 year old girl left home to live with her 18 year old boyfriend?
Assuming that the parents of the girl were opposed and would gladly call the police, what would the 18 year old be charged with? Kidnapping?
I don't know what the legal repercussions of helping and/or harboring a runaway would be. If you need any more (theoretical) details, I'll be more than happy to answer them.
Any legal advice is welcomed, thanks in advance. :)
phmeworp
2008-07-08, 15:18
What would the legal repercussions be in the state of Ohio if (this is all theoretical, of course) a 16 year old girl left home to live with her 18 year old boyfriend?
Assuming that the parents of the girl were opposed and would gladly call the police, what would the 18 year old be charged with? Kidnapping?
If she is with you volunarily, I don't think kidnapping would apply, but it can boggle the mind as to how far a DA can stretch or twist the law.
A good place to sart, however, would be 'custodial interferance'. You might want to check with a hypothetical attorney; they often offer free initial consultations.
Townsend
2008-07-08, 17:24
If she is with you volunarily, I don't think kidnapping would apply, but it can boggle the mind as to how far a DA can stretch or twist the law.
A good place to sart, however, would be 'custodial interferance'. You might want to check with a hypothetical attorney; they often offer free initial consultations.
Ok thanks, I don't know if harboring a runaway would also apply here or not. I'm pretty sure a situation like this couldn't happen without the 18 year old getting in some sort of trouble.
phmeworp
2008-07-09, 02:47
^^^ Bingo!
Whether it is felony charge of kidnapping or a misdemeanor of custodial interference, the key element is that she has parents who would do whatever they can to press whatever charges they can convince the authorites will persue, it is definately a bad idea.
If she has a troubled home life, the best bet would be for her to contact the authorities that oversee such domestic 'disputes' and allow for them to use whatever legal means are available to place her under public supervision or with an alternate, and more caring domestic environment.
Best of luck to her... and to you!