This bill proposes updates to section 8-303 of the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning the procedures for taking juvenile offenders into temporary custody. The current law requires peace officers to advise juveniles of their Miranda rights before questioning and to notify the juvenile's parents or guardians of their custody. The bill modifies this process by mandating that officers immediately notify the juvenile's parents, guardians, or custodians of the custody situation, unless it poses a risk to the juvenile. Additionally, it specifies that officers must advise the juvenile of their Miranda rights in language that is comprehensible to them after making the custody notification.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for peace officers to notify the Department of Child Safety if the juvenile is a ward of the state, ensuring that relevant legal representatives are informed. It also clarifies that when determining whether to take a child into custody, officers may consider the involvement of the parent or guardian in the Healthy Families program as a mitigating factor. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the protection and understanding of juvenile rights during custody situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-303