Re: An unusual situation

Byron,

Regarding the need to contact local authorities vs. reporting
procedures defined by the BSA:

You are right, in that the laws of many States, as written, *do* require
you to report to a an authoritative agency. The response of States vary,
depending on the polictical climate of each state.

Here in Texas, the law reads that (sic) must make a good faith attempt to
contact the Department of Human Resources, or local law enforcement
agency. However, I have had several discussions with the State Attorney
Generals office, as well as the Dallas County District Attorney's office,
and their response was, that it would be very difficult for a State to
prosecute individuals under these statutes, for a variety of legal
reasons. Both offices have stated that informing the Scout Executice
would satisfy the requirement in their opinions.

I can not speak authoritativly for other states, your mileage may vary.

If in doubt, and you have an incident to report, discuss this with the SE
when reporting to him. To my knowledge, no state requires that they be
informed *first*. He won't BS you, since he could be criminally liable
for doing so.

| Brian L. Davis Internet: brian@seton.cor.net |
| Richardson, Tx Compuserve: 72600,2721 |
| Used to be an Eagle. |

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