TCA 39-15-414
Offense of harboring or hiding a runaway child
MISDEMEANOR AClass A Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
It is illegal to knowingly hide or harbor a runaway child and either fail to notify the child's parent, guardian, or police within 24 hours, conceal the child's location, or help the child escape custody. This offense is a Class A misdemeanor punished by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail11 months 29 days
Maximum Fine$2,500
Penalty SummaryClass A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500
(a) A person commits an offense who, with knowledge that a child is a runaway, as defined in § 37-1-102(b)(32)(D), harbors or hides the child and: (1) Fails to notify the child’s legal custodian, legal guardian, or law enforcement authorities of the whereabouts of the child within a reasonable amount of time; provided, that no length of time in excess of twenty-four (24) hours shall be considered reasonable; (2) Conceals the whereabouts of the child; or (3) Aides the child in escaping from the custody of the child’s legal custodian, legal guardian or law enforcement authorities. (b) A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Recent Bookings with this Charge
View allQuick Facts
MISDEMEANOR A
TCA Section39-15-414
Max Jail11 months 29 days
Max Fine$2,500
Recent Bookings1+
Geographic Distribution
Sullivan1