What is the minimum age for a minor to be secured in detention?

The minimum age for a minor to be secured in detention is typically set at 14 years old. This is based on legislative standards regarding juvenile justice, which recognize that minors younger than 14 are generally not held accountable under the same legal framework as older adolescents.

This age threshold is important as it reflects the understanding of developmental psychology, where minors under this age are often considered not fully capable of comprehending the consequences of their actions to the extent necessary for secure detention. Therefore, the law prioritizes rehabilitative approaches over punitive measures for younger individuals. By establishing 14 as the minimum age for secure detention, the legal system aims to provide appropriate care and guidance rather than confinement, fostering a more supportive environment for minors in the juvenile justice system.