Peran Kepolisian dalam Perlindungan Hukum terhadap Anak sebagai Pelaku Tindak Pidana Penganiayaan; Studi pada Polrestabes Medan

This study aims to analyze the role of the police in providing legal protection for children who are perpetrators of criminal acts of assault, with a focus on its implementation at the Medan Metropolitan Police (Polrestabes Medan). The research is directed at understanding the extent to which law enforcement efforts consider the principle of the best interests of the child, in accordance with prevailing legal provisions, particularly Law Number 11 of 2012 on the Juvenile Criminal Justice System. This article falls under qualitative field research. The methodology employed is a juridical-empirical study described through descriptive analysis. The findings show that the police play a vital role in ensuring legal protection for children who commit assault, from the investigation and inquiry stages to the diversion of cases through the diversion mechanism. However, challenges remain in implementation, such as limited supporting facilities, a lack of understanding among some officers regarding child protection–oriented approaches, and social factors influencing the case settlement process. These findings emphasize the need to enhance the capacity of law enforcement officers and strengthen cross-sectoral coordination to achieve optimal legal protection for children.