32A-1-21. Runaway child; law enforcement; permitted acts.

145 words·~1 min read·/nm/chapter-32a-children-s-code/article-1-general-provisions/32a-1-21

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

Whenever a law enforcement agency receives a report from a parent, guardian or custodian that a child over whom the parent, guardian or custodian has custody has, without permission, left the home or residence lawfully prescribed for the child and the parent, guardian or custodian believes the child has run away, a law enforcement agent may help the parent, guardian or custodian locate the child and:

A. return the child to the parent, guardian or custodian unless safety concerns are present;

B. hold the child for up to six hours if the parent, guardian or custodian cannot be located; provided, however, that no child shall be placed in a secured setting pursuant to this section; or

C. after the six hours has expired, follow the procedures outlined in Section 32A-3B- 3 NMSA 1978.

History: Laws 2007, ch. 185, § 2; 2009, ch. 239, § 9.