Section 21 Function ofPolice

• Library: Juvenile Law 2011

Although the juvenile officer is “vested with all the power and authority of sheriffs to make arrests and perform other duties incident to his office,” § 211.401.2, RSMo 2000, traditional police work in juvenile cases is generally handled by law enforcement authorities. It is the responsibility of the local sheriff or police department to investigate law violations involving children, gather necessary evidence, and bring the offender before the juvenile court. Any investigations conducted by the juvenile...