What should officers do when transporting juveniles under ten years of age?

When transporting juveniles under ten years of age, officers are instructed to avoid using restraints unless it's deemed necessary for the safety of the child or the officers. This policy is based on the understanding that children, particularly those under ten, may be more vulnerable and could be negatively affected by the experience of being restrained.

The overarching goal is to ensure the safety and dignity of young juveniles in a police environment. Sensitive treatment is important, as children can experience increased anxiety and trauma from being restrained. The use of restraints can be seen as punitive rather than protective, particularly when other options for safety and security can be implemented effectively.

In contrast, other approaches, such as denying restraints altogether or allowing the juvenile to sit on the floor without proper support or safety measures, could compromise both the child's safety and the safety of the officers. Furthermore, while having a guardian accompany the juvenile may be beneficial, it is not always practical or necessary for all transport situations. The focus remains primarily on ensuring a safe environment for the juvenile while minimizing the use of restraints to only those situations where safety is genuinely at risk.