As used in this article, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
GUARDIAN
Any natural person who has been charged with ensuring the
safety and well-being of a minor for a period of 24 hours or longer.
This term shall not apply to any person responsible for a minor for
less than a twenty-four-hour period.
LAW ENFORCEMENT
The Suffolk County Police Department or, if the minor goes
missing outside of the Police District, a Town or village police department.
MINOR
Any natural person under the age of 18 years.
PARENT
The mother or father of a minor.
If a minor goes missing in the County of Suffolk, the minor's
parent or guardian must report same to law enforcement within 24 hours
of discovering the minor's disappearance.
Violation of this article shall constitute an unclassified misdemeanor,
punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year's
imprisonment.
This article shall apply to all actions occurring on or after
the effective date of this article.