What is the purpose of the Interstate Compact on Juveniles?

The purpose of the Interstate Compact on Juveniles is primarily to establish a formal agreement that facilitates the supervision and return of juveniles who are charged with or adjudicated for offenses. This compact was created to address the issue of juveniles crossing state lines, whether to escape from the jurisdiction of law enforcement or because they are under the supervision of a juvenile justice system. The compact ensures that when these juveniles are located in a different state, they can be returned to their home state for proper legal processing and supervision. By providing a structured framework for communication and cooperation between states, the compact promotes consistency in how juvenile cases are handled across state lines and protects the welfare of juveniles by ensuring they are not lost in the system. This aligns directly with the answer provided, highlighting the compact's role in returning juveniles to their home state for appropriate action.