(a) A person is guilty of child stealing when he takes or keeps a child who is less than fourteen (14) years old and who is not his natural or adopted child with intent to conceal that child from his parent, legal guardian or other person having that child in his care or custody or under his control. (b) This section shall not apply to a relative of a child who believes that taking or keeping that child is necessary to protect him from physical or emotional harm. (c) Child stealing is a felony of the third degree. SOURCE: Guam § 278; M.P.C. § 212.4; Cal. §§ 1531(1)(c), 1532 (T.D.1 1967); *Cal. § 878 (1971); Mass. Ch. 265, §§ 14(d), 15(b); N.J. § 2c:13-4.
COL5242018
COMMENT: If a taking or confinement of a child is accomplished for one of the purposes specified for kidnapping, such conduct is, of course, covered by § 22.20.