North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What type of offenses would require a complainant to charge non-divertible offenses in order for a juvenile to be fingerprinted?

1. Minor traffic violations

2. Non-serious misdemeanors

3. Felonies or other serious offenses

4. Public disorder offenses

The correct answer is: Felonies or other serious offenses

When it comes to juvenile offenses and the circumstances under which a juvenile can be fingerprinted, specific criteria must be met, particularly regarding the severity of the offenses committed. In the context of the question, charging a juvenile with felonies or other serious offenses is a key factor that allows for the collection of fingerprints. Felonies are defined as more serious crimes that typically carry heavier penalties, including imprisonment. Given the potential consequences and the gravity of the situation, the legal framework permits law enforcement to take fingerprints in these cases. This practice helps maintain adequate records for serious offenses and assists in any future legal proceedings, ensuring that the justice system can properly address serious criminal behavior, even when the offender is a juvenile. On the other hand, minor traffic violations, non-serious misdemeanors, and public disorder offenses usually do not meet the threshold for fingerprinting, as these offenses are considered less severe and are often dealt with through alternate means such as diversion programs or local resolutions. Consequently, the fingerprinting of juveniles is generally reserved for more serious situations that warrant such measures, underscoring the intent to monitor and manage serious juvenile behavior effectively.