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How to report a runaway child in texas


Runaway Laws in Texas | DFPS Texas Youth Helpline

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Runaway Laws in Texas

The Texas Youth Helpline can help you understand runaway laws in Texas.

There are many different legal issues having to do with running away in Texas. If you are in crisis and are either thinking of running away or you are worried a child or teen you know is thinking about it, trained staff and volunteers at the Texas Youth Helpline can talk you through it.

We understand the laws related to running away and can explain them to you and refer you to local services that can give you even more specialized information. We can also talk to you about any issues you are dealing with and guide you to resources that may help you.

Is it illegal to run away from home?

It is against the law in Texas for a child to run away from home. It is considered a status offense, not a criminal offense, meaning it would not be an offense if committed by an adult. The Juvenile Delinquency and Prevention Act protects status offenders from being placed in “secured facilities” like a jail.

At what age can teens legally leave home in Texas?

In Texas, parents are legally responsible for their children up until age 18. However, only youth age 16 and under can be charged with status offenses, meaning a 17-year-old would not be considered a “runaway” and would instead be reported as “a missing person.” In most cases, local law enforcement will determine if a 17-year-old can be forced to return home.

Also, youth under the age of 16 can legally leave home if they become an emancipated minor, meaning their parents no longer have the legal responsibility to take care of them. 

How does a teen get emancipated from a parent?

It is not easy for a teen to be legally emancipated and it varies on a case-by-case basis. The most common way to become emancipated is to petition a court. Youth must show they can take care of themselves financially, can make their own decisions, and can prove that being emancipated from their parents is in their best interests. Typically, you need to be 16 or 17 years old to become emancipated from a parent in Texas. To learn more, please contact us here at the Texas Youth Helpline directly.

Can I take in my child’s friend who has run away?

Harboring a minor without the consent of a legal guardian is considered a Class A misdemeanor in Texas and is punishable by “a fine not to exceed $4,000, and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed one year.” Parents and guardians can choose to press charges against anyone who harbors their child without permission. If you have more questions or think you know a child who is at risk, please contact us at the Texas Youth Helpline.

Harboring a Runaway Child | Consequences and Jail Time in Texas

Criminal

By Benson Varghese

Last Updated: June 24th, 2021

Published on: June 14th, 2017

Table of Contents

1

Unfortunately, thousands of children run away from home each year. Some flee because they are rebellious and don’t want to follow rules. Others leave to escape abuse or neglect. Many take off to avoid crisis or conflict, such as drug addiction, an unplanned pregnancy, or being bullied at school.

Regardless of the reason, running away from home is rarely the answer. Not only is it dangerous, but it can lead to criminal consequences for the runaway child – and for those who take them in or help them.

Is it Illegal to Run Away from Home in Texas?

In Texas, running away from home is considered a “status offense.” A status offense occurs when a juvenile engages in conduct that would not be a crime if committed by an adult, such as drinking, smoking, skipping school, and running away from home. If a juvenile court finds that a child has committed a status offense, it can place the youth on varying levels of probation but cannot sentence the offender to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, or juvenile prison.

Can I Get in Trouble for Harboring a Runaway Child in Texas?

Taking in a runaway child without permission from the child’s parent or legal guarding is known as “harboring a runaway” and it’s illegal. Under Texas Penal Code 25.06, a person commits an offense if he knowingly harbors, or hides, a child and he is criminally negligent about whether the child:

  • is younger than 18 years old;
  • has escaped from the custody of a peace officer, a probation officer, the Texas Youth Council, or a detention facility for children; or
  • voluntarily left home without the consent of the child’s parent or guardian for a substantial length of time or without the intent to return.
  • What is the Punishment for Harboring a Runaway?

Harboring a runaway child is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a maximum $4,000 fine, or both. Class A offenses are the most serious misdemeanor classifications in Texas.

Are There Any Defenses for Harboring a Runaway Child in Texas?

Yes. It’s important to point out that there are defenses for harboring a runaway. An individual would not be in violation of the law if they:

  • were related to the child “within the second degree by consanguinity or affinity” as defined by Chapter 573, Government Code; or
  • if you inform the child’s legal custodian or a law enforcement agency of the child’s location within 24 hours.

Can You Legally Leave Home at 17 Years Old in Texas Without Parental Permission?

In Texas, parents and guardians are legally responsible for their children until age 18 – unless emancipation has been granted. If a parent reports their 17-year-old child as a runaway and the teen is subsequently identified by a peace officer, law enforcement can return them home until age 18. Under the law, police must immediately enter a child into the National Crime Information Center if they receive a report that a child is missing or has escaped from custody.

Can You Recommend Resources for Runaways?

If you are a juvenile who has run away from home or is contemplating this action, we urge you to contact a professional who can assist with crisis intervention. The following resources can help:

  • Texas Youth and Runaway Hotline 1-800-989-6884
  • National Runaway Safeline 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929)
  • National Safe Place Text the word “safe” and your current location to 4HELP (44357)

What Should I Do If I’m Facing Charges of Harboring a Runaway?

Even if you had good intentions, harboring a runaway is a serious offense in Texas. If you are facing charges of harboring a runaway, you will need an experienced defense attorney by your side. We can help.

Call today for a complimentary strategy session. During this call we will:

  • Discuss the facts of your case;
  • Discuss the legal issues involved, including the direct and collateral consequences of the allegation; and
  • Discuss the defenses that apply to your plan and in general terms discuss our approach to your case.

Call: (817) 203-2220

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Anna Belkina

Pavel Mikovdetisirotypavel Astakhov

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Texas elementary school attack: 19 children and teacher killed, attacker killed

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Video caption,

19 children died: Texas school attack. Video

At least 19 elementary school students and a teacher were killed in a shooting at an elementary school in Uwald, Texas. nine0114

Another 13 children were taken to hospitals, they have injuries of varying severity. A 66-year-old woman and a 10-year-old girl are in critical condition.

The local press calls the deceased teacher Eva Morales.

The attacker, 18-year-old local resident Salvador Romas, was shot dead. According to local press reports, he was a high school student at the same school.

Also, according to some reports, before going to school, he shot his grandmother.

The shooting at the school happened two days before the start of the summer break, so Tuesday was an unusual day: the kids went to the zoo, and then there was to be an awards ceremony for the students. Children were asked to come in smart clothes, not school uniforms.

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    Image copyright Reuters

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    The author of the photo, Reuters

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    Photo copyright, Getty Images

    Image caption,

    It's time to act and stop the gun lobby, said the President of the United States

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