Indiana § 20-33-2-23 - Powers of certain officers to take children into custody
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 20-33-2-23 — Powers of certain officers to take children into custody, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-33-2-23. Powers of certain officers to take children into custody
Sec. 23. (a) Each school attendance officer, sheriff, marshal, and police officer in Indiana may take into custody any child who:
(1) is required to attend school under this chapter; and
(2) is found during school hours, unless accompanied:
(A) by a parent; or
(B) with the consent of a parent, by a relative by blood or marriage who is at least eighteen (18) years of age;
in a public place, in a public or private conveyance, or in a place of business open to the public.
(b) When an officer takes a child into custody under this section, the officer shall immediately deliver the child to the principal of the public or nonpublic school in which the child is enrolled. If a child is not enrolled in any school, then the officer shall deliver the child into the custody of the principal of the public school in the attendance area in which the child resides. If a child is taken to the appropriate school and the principal is unavailable, the acting chief administrative officer of the school shall take custody of the child.
(c) The powers conferred under this section may be exercised without warrant and without subsequent legal proceedings.
[Pre-2005 Elementary and Secondary Education Recodification Citation: 20-8.1-3-29.]
As added by P.L.1-2005, SEC.17.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 20-33-2-23
What does Indiana Code § 20-33-2-23 cover?
Section 20-33-2-23 ("Powers of certain officers to take children into custody") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 20-33-2-23?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 20-33-2-23" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 20-33-2-23 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.