When to Halt?
The police or the compulsory education officer can decide to send youth aged 12 to 18 years who have committed a petty crime to Halt. Whether or not they do this depends on a number of criteria such as the type of offence and the youngster’s history. Has the youngster in question had prior contact with the judicial authorities or Halt? The Public Prosecutor's Office can also refer young people to Halt in case of special circumstances for more serious offences such as Opium offences, threats and simple assault. These offences fall under Halt plus.
If the youngster is 16 years or older, they will be asked to consent to the referral to Halt. If he or she has not yet reached the age of 16, their parents/legal representatives will be asked to consent.