Can you be considered a run away if you still go to school

[Guest]

So my friend “ran away”. He was gone for about 2 days but still went to school. They handcuffed him at school and took him away. Me and 2 of his other closest friends haven’t been able to get ahold of him but some people are saying he can’t be charged since he still went to school, so technically he’s not a run away. Is this true. We aren’t sure if he’s locked up or if his dad just took his phone.

[ccsmod1]

Hey There,

Thanks so much for contacting us, it takes a lot of courage to reach out and share what’s going on. You must be a really good friend, it seems like you care a lot about your friend’s safety and well-being. Running away is considered a status offense, which means that it isn’t illegal per se, but something that can’t be done while still a minor (most states consider anyone under the age of 18 a minor). We aren’t legal experts here at NRS, but generally speaking, if a minor does leave home their parents/guardians can file a runaway report, which is essentially a missing person report. Normally, when a runaway is located they are returned home to their parents/guardians and not detained. It should be noted that everyone has a unique set of circumstances so your friend’s situation may be different.

All the best,
NRS