What category does a youth who runs away and commits status offenses fall under in the court system?

A youth who runs away and commits status offenses is categorized as "Unruly" in the court system. Status offenses are actions that are considered illegal only because of the age of the individual, such as truancy, running away from home, or curfew violations. The "Unruly" designation specifically applies to minors who engage in these behaviors, recognizing that they are not committing criminal offenses in the traditional sense but are exhibiting behaviors that are problematic and in need of intervention.

In the context of the juvenile justice system, the term "Unruly" serves to distinguish these youths from those committing more serious criminal acts, which would fall under the category of "Delinquent Child." Here, the focus is on addressing the underlying issues that lead to these status offenses, often involving family dynamics or social issues, rather than treating them as serious criminals. This recognition allows the court to facilitate appropriate interventions aimed at rehabilitation and support rather than punishment.