Narcotics abuse involving children presents complex legal issues because children occupy a dual position as perpetrators of criminal offenses and as persons requiring protection and recovery. This study aims to analyze the legal status of children in narcotics abuse cases and the implementation of diversion at the investigation stage at the Pohuwato Resort Police under Law No. 11 of 2012 on the Juvenile Criminal Justice System (UU SPPA). The study employed an empirical legal research method using a juridical-sociological and qualitative approach. Primary data were obtained through institutional interviews with investigators from Satresnarkoba and Unit PPA in April 2026, while secondary data encompassed legislation, literature, and summaries of child cases from 2020–2024. Validation was conducted by comparing interview accounts, case-data summaries, and legal materials. Of 27 child cases from 2020–2024, 16 diversions were successful and 11 were unsuccessful. Qualitatively, successful diversion was associated with fulfillment of the requirements under Article 7 of the UU SPPA, family support, recommendations from Bapas, and the availability of recovery options, whereas unsuccessful diversion was associated with statutory provisions prescribing severe penalties, limited rehabilitation, and weak community support. This study confirms that investigators serve as gatekeepers, but legal classification must be based on facts and evidence rather than solely on creating an opportunity for diversion. Strengthening the documentation of the reasons for diversion outcomes and child rehabilitation networks is necessary to make recovery more measurable.
