Juvenile investigations - how responsible are parents?

[amaryllis2004]

Hello -

I had a question for a story I am researching. What kind of investigation would occur if a 16-year-old stole medications from his/her physician parent?

What would happen if the stolen drug got in the hands of a classmate who had an adverse effect?

Would the charges necessarily result in an arrest if the teenager had a good school record, etc?

Thank you so much.

[retdetsgt]

There is nothing synomous with good grades in school and being held responsible for a crime. Police and the courts couldn't care less how good a student you are.

He might not be charged with stealing from the parents if they don't want it done, but he can be charged with possession and delivery. If the other kid dies, he could be charged with murder.

[amaryllis2004]

Thank you for your response -

My additional question is, what if it's not a "controlled substance" (narcotic or sedative). What kind of consequences would there be for giving away, say, a high blood pressure medication or something?

If the friend just happens to take it from the teenager's bookbag or something, will he/the parents still be held accountable?

A

[Citicop]

Thank you for your response -

My additional question is, what if it's not a "controlled substance" (narcotic or sedative). What kind of consequences would there be for giving away, say, a high blood pressure medication or something?

If the friend just happens to take it from the teenager's bookbag or something, will he/the parents still be held accountable?

A

Any prescription med is a "controlled substance."

[retdetsgt]

Thank you for your response -

My additional question is, what if it's not a "controlled substance" (narcotic or sedative). What kind of consequences would there be for giving away, say, a high blood pressure medication or something?

If the friend just happens to take it from the teenager's bookbag or something, will he/the parents still be held accountable?

A

Why would any kid take blood pressure meds from their parents?:confused: If it's not mood altering, I can't imagine anybody taking anything for giggles.

[DeltaV]

Any prescription med is a "controlled substance."

I guess it might vary from state to state, however a "controlled substance" here is only a scheduled drug. There is a statute for possession of a non-controlled legend drug without a prescription, however if it's not scheduled then it's not technically a controlled substance.

Aside from any criminal charges that the kid (or parents) may face, parents are almost always civilly liable for the actions of their children. If a child gives medication to their friends and one of the friends suffers side effects that cause illness or death, the parents can be sued in civil court.

[mcsap]

If there is no criminal negligence that attaches for the 16 yr olds actions , there would almost certainly be a civil suit. Think OJ. NG on the criminal side, G on the civil side.

[amaryllis2004]

Thank you for your responses. It's very helpful to get your point of view, particularly as I hash out different plot elements.

In terms of the blood pressure medications, I've heard that a beta blocker can make people feel calm and chilled out...

Two more logistical questions:

1. During the investigation, is the teenager usually questioned with his/her parents?
2. At what point in the investigation would a psychologist/psychiatrist get involved?

Yours,
A

[Kimble]

1. During the investigation, is the teenager usually questioned with his/her parents?

Juveniles have the right to have their parent present during questioning.

2. At what point in the investigation would a psychologist/psychiatrist get involved?

That would not be something automatic, no more than it would be if the person being investigated were an adult. Unless some sort of abnormal psychological disorder were discovered, there wouldn't be a need for a psychologist/psychiatrist.

[retdetsgt]

The teenager can ask to have his/her parents present, but there it's not a requirement before the police talk to them. In other words, after Miranda is given, the fact the parents weren't present at the time doesn't exempt the statements from being used in court.

A mental health professional might be involved by the court, not by the police during the investigation. Mental health issues aren't our concern.

[Kimble]

The teenager can ask to have his/her parents present, but there it's not a requirement before the police talk to them. In other words, after Miranda is given, the fact the parents weren't present at the time doesn't exempt the statements from being used in court.

Exactly. We have to tell them that they can have their parents present, but if they don't want them, or if we talk to them before the folks arrive, any statements given aren't thrown out.