Cana parent be charged with harboring a fugitive?
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Cana parent be charged with harboring a fugitive?
Can I be charged with harboring a fugitive if law enforcement arrests my son in my home? He is wanted on a failure to appear. A warrant has been issued.
Asked on October 21, 2010 under Criminal Law, Oklahoma
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
Harboring a fugitive refers to the crime of knowingly hiding a wanted criminal from the authorities. Since you are aware of the warrant that has been issued for your son, if you allow him refuge (i.e. let him stay) in your home, yes, you could be so charged - whether or not you are his parent. While federal and state laws vary, you will be putting yourself at risk for doing so. Right now you should not let him enter your home or make him leave if he is already there. And don't give him any money.
Bottom line, you should consult with a criminal law attorney about you and your son's situation. Frankly, the best thing to do is to get your son to turn himself in and deal with this. I don't know the underlying charge involved, but his running is only making a bad situation worse.
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