Washington D.C. Minor Abduction and Enticement

The law distinguishes these two forms:

• Abduction involves the forcible removal of a child from their home, school, or caregiver, typically using threats, physical restraint, or intimidation.
• Enticement involves persuading or tricking a minor into leaving their home or custodian through promises, deception, or emotional manipulation.

Both are prosecuted regardless of the minor's willingness or perceived consent.

To secure a conviction under D.C. Code § 22–2001 (Kidnapping) or § 22–2006 (Enticing a Child), prosecutors must prove:

1. 
   The victim is under 18 years of age;
2. The defendant took or lured the child without legal authority;
3. The intent was to keep the child under the defendant’s or another person’s control.

A child’s consent is not a valid legal defense to these charges.

• Kidnapping (D.C. Code § 22–2001): Punishable by 20 years to life imprisonment, depending on aggravating factors.
• Enticing a Child (D.C. Code § 22–2006): Typically charged as a felony with penalties reaching 10 or more years, particularly when coercion or risk of harm is involved.
• Attempted offenses (D.C. Code § 22–1803): May result in penalties comparable to completed acts, especially in cases involving minors.

Even well-intentioned adults who shelter runaway minors without notifying authorities may be charged if:

• The child’s parents or legal guardians are unaware of their location;
• The adult knowingly encourages the minor to remain absent from home;
• No report is made to police or child services.

Under D.C. laws and federal reporting mandates, failure to report a missing child—regardless of one’s intentions—may result in criminal liability.

If the purpose of the enticement is sexual, prosecutors may also bring charges under:

• D.C. Code § 22–3008 (First Degree Child Sexual Abuse)
• 18 U.S. Code § 2422 (Coercion and Enticement of a Minor)
   

Penalties for these offenses include mandatory minimums of 5 years and up to life imprisonment, especially when conducted via digital platforms or across state lines.

Grooming refers to the gradual process of establishing trust with a minor for the purpose of abuse. Even if physical force is absent, enticement may be established if:

• The defendant regularly communicated with the child;
• The child was manipulated into voluntarily meeting or leaving home;
• Deceptive or suggestive messages created emotional dependency.

These cases often involve digital evidence and are evaluated by the courts based on context and intention, not just physical actions.

Common legal arguments may include:

• Lack of intent: The defendant did not intend to deprive legal custody.
• Misunderstanding: The adult attempted to help the child but lacked full knowledge of their status.
• Parental visitation rights: In custody disputes, the accused may have legal visitation rights, though this does not always excuse the conduct.

Because these cases can lead to felony convictions and potential sex offender registration, it is critical to:

• Secure communications (texts, DMs, emails);
• Document the timeline and intention of the alleged conduct;
• Clarify any lawful authority or familial relationships at play.

Without these defenses, prosecutors may pursue plea deals with lasting reputational and legal consequences.