When a crime occurs, the victim or witnesses to the crime contact the local police agency or Orange County Sheriffs Department to report what happened.
The police agency investigates the crime by taking statements from the victims and/or witness, collecting evidence, and interviewing suspects.
After investigating, the police agency may immediately arrest the minor and take him or her to Juvenile Hall or release the minor to his or her parent or legal guardian. If the minor is released to his or her parents and charges are later filed, the minor is sent a notice to appear in Juvenile Court a few weeks later.
