How are juvenile offenders processed?
Juvenile offenders are handled differently than adult suspects. Depending on the specific circumstances, juveniles will either be released directly to their parents or be taken to the police department for short-term detention, processing and investigation. Release To Parents Or Guardians In most cases, juveniles can be released to their parents or legal guardians within two hours of the arrest. However, cases requiring more investigation may require longer detention of the suspect. In all cases, however, an officer will notify parents or guardians that their child is in custody. The officer also will cite the reasons why the action is being taken. Juveniles not released to parents or guardians usually are transferred to Mary Davis Juvenile Detention Center. Teen Court First time offenders can be referred to Knox County Teen Court.
