PERTANGGUNGJAWABAN PIDANA PEREDARAN NARKOTIKA TERHADAP ANAK DIBAWAH UMUR DI WILAYAH HUKUM KEPOLISIAN RESOR KLUNGKUNG

Abstract

Legal protection for children is a responsibility of the state as mandated in Article 1point 1 of the Child Protection Act, which defines a child as any person under the ageof 18, including those still in the womb. In the era of globalization, there has been a growing involvement of children in criminal acts, notably in the distribution ofnarcotics. This study aims to analyze the criminal liability imposed on childreninvolved in narcotics distribution within the jurisdiction of Klungkung PoliceDepartment, as well as to identify the efforts made by law enforcement in addressingsuch offenses. The research employs an empirical legal research method, grounded inthe principles of legality, legal certainty, juvenile delinquency, and criminal liability.The data utilized comprises both primary and secondary sources collected throughinterviews and document studies. These data are then analyzed using qualitativemethods combined with deductive legal reasoning and presented in a descriptivequalitative and systematic manner. The findings indicate that the criminal liability forchild offenders involved in narcotics distribution may be addressed through diversionmechanisms, treatment, rehabilitation, and sentencing. Furthermore, the KlungkungPolice Department undertakes both preventive (pre-emptive) and repressive(enforcement) measures to combat narcotics offenses involving minors. In conclusion,the legal approach to child narcotics offenders in the jurisdiction of the KlungkungPolice emphasizes restorative justice principles through diversion, combined withrehabilitative actions aimed at safeguarding the child’s future development.