For a missing juvenile, what factor should be considered for their entry?

When considering the entry of a missing juvenile into a system, the high-risk factor is paramount. This is because children who are missing face various dangers, including potential exploitation, harm, or being in situations that could jeopardize their safety. The urgency of their situation often warrants a heightened response from law enforcement and child protection agencies.

Investigating the circumstances surrounding the juvenile's disappearance is critical, as certain indicators can increase the assessment of risk. For instance, if a juvenile is missing under suspicious circumstances, has a history of running away, or is believed to be involved with dangerous individuals, these factors contribute to recognizing the situation as high-risk. Promptly classifying a missing juvenile as high risk ensures that necessary resources and attention are allocated, facilitating quicker recovery efforts and potentially preventing further harm to the child.

Lower risk classifications may not encapsulate the seriousness and potential threats a missing juvenile might face, thus leading to inadequate responses.