Q: My 17 year old was in a shoving match, and law enforcement was called. No one was arrested and other party had to leave.
The officer gave my son a lecture after hearing both sides. I as the parent broke up the altercation. The officer said if they come back everyone on the property will be arrested. He told my son you don't want your father arrested or yourself. My main question is since my son is only 17 a minor. I am guessing I am responsible for his actions even I was the person who made sure no one was hurt. I don't understand how I or anyone else besides the 2 who were pushing each other go to jail. I am very lost and confused when I think about how I could be arrested for the parties actions.
A: As far as the altercation is concerned, the individuals involved would be the ones subject to arrest. When police arrived, anyone who fails to follow lawful commands or acts unruly would also be subject to arrest. If you supply prohibited substances to the minors or allow them to use them while on your premises you may be subject to arrest. However, if you are talking about a group of teens hanging out at your house where a fight suddenly breaks out, you should not be subject to arrest, unless you do not follow the commands of the responding officers. I say “subject to arrest” because you never know what an officer will do when confronted with different scenarios.
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