CHILD ABDUCTION
by Aaron Dishon, Esq.
What Is Child Abduction?
A child abduction occurs when someone takes, entices away,
keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a
custody or visitation order.
Can A Family Member Abduct Their Own Child?
Yes. Not only does child abduction involve violation of
Family Court, Juvenile Court and/or Probate Court orders,
but it also involves a FELONY violation of the law. The
punishment for committing such a crime can be up to four
years in prison and a $10,000 fine, even if the abductor is
a family member!
Are There Any Exceptions?
A child may be taken or detained in violation of a
custody or visitation order if there is a good faith and
reasonable belief that the child(ren), if left with another
person, will suffer immediate bodily injury or emotional
harm. However, if you do take your child(ren) under this
exception, you MUST call the District Attorney's Office
Child Abduction Unit.
What Should You Do If Your Child Is Abducted?
If possible, call the police and file a report. They will
require that you have certified copies of your most recent
court orders regarding custody. Also, ask the law
enforcement agency to place your child in NCIC, the national
crime information computer system. Immediately notify the
District Attorney's Office Child Abduction Unit of your
county.
For additional assistance, you may wish to call the
"National Center for
Missing and Exploited Children" at 1-800-843-5678
Bio and more articles by Aaron Dishon
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