Status Offenders/Offenses

Status offenders are a specific offender group whose illegal behavior is only viewed as illegal because they are under the age of majority. The same actions committed by those above the age of majority would not be viewed as illegal. Truancy, running away from home, incorrigibility (e.g., disobeying parents/guardians), violating curfew, and alcohol possession are the most common status offenses. Keywords: delinquency; juvenile justice; youth