As used in this chapter, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
GUARDIAN
A person, other than a parent, to whom legal custody of a
juvenile has been given by court order or who is acting in place of
the parent or is responsible for the care and welfare of the juvenile.
JUVENILE
An individual who is under the age of 18.
PUBLIC PLACE
Any place to which the public has access, including but not
limited to any public street, road, thoroughfare, sidewalk, bridge,
alley, plaza, park, recreation or shopping area, public transportation
facility, vehicle used for public transportation, parking lot or any
other public building, structure or area.
It shall be unlawful for the parent or guardian to allow a juvenile to be in or upon any public place as prohibited under §
118-2, provided that the provisions of this section shall not apply when exceptions set forth in §
118-2A(1) through
(7), inclusive, are applicable.
If a minor is apprehended while violating this
chapter the police officer or special officer so apprehending is hereby
authorized and empowered to take into custody such juvenile child.
Such officer shall notify the parent or guardian or adult person having
the care and custody of the juvenile of the violation of this chapter
and the penalty therefor. The juvenile so apprehended shall be taken
into custody but may be released immediately in the custody of his
parent, guardian or other adult person having the care and custody
of the juvenile.