Wanderlust World Wanderlust World - Minors under the age of 18 (or under 21 if still dependent on their parents or guardians) must stay in the legal custody of their parents, guardians, or other lawful custodians.
- Leaving home without permission is a status offense, which is a noncriminal violation of the law.
- Runaway youth can be arrested and detained and returned to their parents or guardians.
- However, law enforcement officers are not required to arrest or detain runaway youth, and many departments prioritize helping runaway youth over enforcing the law.
- Runaway youth have rights, such as the right to food, shelter, and medical care, regardless of their immigration status.
- There are many community resources and services available to runaway youth, such as shelters, counseling, and job training.
- If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929) or visit their website at www.1800runaway.org.