In the Interest of C.C.

Briscoe, C.J.:

The Secretary of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) appeals the district court’s order that SRS pay the costs of custody and mental health treatment for C.C., a juvenile offender.

C.C. was adjudicated a child in need of care in April 1993, and custody was awarded to SRS in June 1993. SRS placed C.C. in a foster home. Almost immediately after his placement in a foster home, C.C. ran away. C.C. was eventually located in New Orleans and returned to Riley County.

In July 1993, C.C. was charged with vehicle burglaries, felony theft, and misdemeanor theft. C.C. stipulated to the…