In Michigan, is it illegal for a 16 year old to run away?

[Guest]

my girlfriend is having issues with her mom as we are not allowed to see eachother. i have talked to my therapist before and she said that they will not go after a 17 year old in michigan if they run away. she is 16 as of now and won’t be 17 until 7 months. will the police go after 16 year olds?

[ccsmod15]

Thank you for reaching out to National Runaway Safeline. It must be difficult to not be able to see your girlfriend. We’re not legal experts, but it usually isn’t illegal to run away. It’s considered a status offense, which just means that the youth left without permission of their guardian. Something to also keep in mind is that some states have what is called harboring laws. If a runaway report is filed, these laws allow for people that knowingly let runaways stay with them could be charged. Generally, whether or not the police will go after a runaway is up to the local police department. Some actively look for runaways and others may not do anything unless they happen to have an interaction with the runaway.

If you have any other questions or need support, please feel free to reach back out. We can be reached at 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929) or via chat at www.1800RUNAWAY.org. We’re here 24/7. Best of luck!