28-A M.R.S.A. uses the Title 15 definition of a juvenile, defined as someone who is under the age of:

The definition of a juvenile as someone under the age of 18 years old is significant within the context of juvenile justice and law enforcement practices. In Maine, this age limit is established to distinguish between juveniles and adults in legal matters, which influences the treatment and rehabilitation options available to individuals who violate the law.

By setting the upper age limit at 17 years, individuals who are 18 years old or older are considered adults and are subject to different legal processes and consequences. This age distinction is critical because it reflects the understanding that juveniles may require more supportive interventions focused on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures, given their developmental stage.

The other options present different age limits that do not align with the Title 15 definition, which is crucial for law enforcement personnel to know in order to apply the law correctly and ensure that juveniles are treated appropriately within the justice system.