Q: What is the statute of limitations for providing shelter to a runaway
A: The Utah statute of limitations for a class B misdemeanor (which is what providing shelter to a runaway is) is generally two years. I say generally because the running of the limitations period can be tolled (or paused) if and during which the accused leaves the state. It is also important to note that the statute does not begin to run when one begins to provide shelter. The time period starts when the sheltering stops. So, it would be two years from the latest date on which shelter was provided, but you would have to add to that any period of time during which it could be shown that the provider was out of the state (I.e., after one year, the provider leaves the state for three months. The total time becomes two years and three months from when the sheltering ended.). I should also note that this offense has several affirmative defenses and circumstances under which it does not apply. If you or someone you know are/is in a sheltering situation currently, you should seek legal counsel as to your best course of action.
Aric M. Cramer agrees with this answer
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