Can a law enforcement officer arrest a juvenile who is truant or a runaway?

The correct choice reflects that a law enforcement officer cannot arrest a juvenile for being truant or a runaway. Generally, truancy — the act of staying away from school without an valid excuse — and being a runaway — a juvenile who leaves home without permission — are typically handled through civil procedures rather than criminal arrests.

In the case of truancy, schools often have their own mechanisms in place to address this issue, such as notifying parents, setting up meetings, or employing social services, rather than involving the police. With runaways, while there may be safety concerns, the preferred approach often involves locating the juvenile and returning them home, rather than making an arrest. These practices aim to focus on rehabilitation and support rather than punitive measures, which aligns with the overall juvenile justice philosophy that seeks to guide minors towards better choices rather than punish them for their behavior.

Understanding the distinction between civil and criminal matters in juvenile cases is crucial, as it underlines the importance of a supportive rather than punitive approach to youth issues in the justice system.