Iowa legal term
Custody in Iowa Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Iowa legislative session
In Iowa criminal law, “Custody” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Iowa criminal code.
What does “Custody” mean in Iowa criminal law?
“Custody” means to possess, control, keep, or harbor a dangerous wild animal in this state by a public agency. 5. a. “Dangerous wild animal” means any of the following: (1) A member of the family canidae of the order carnivora, including but not limited to wolves, coyotes, and jackals. (Iowa Code § 717F.1)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
- Animal neglect penalties
- Conditions of release
- Elder abuse initiation of charges penalty
- Escape or absence from custody
- Financial exploitation of an older individual
- Possessing contraband
- Violating custodial order
- Abandonment of cats and dogs penalties
- Child stealing
- Consumption or intoxication in public places
- Enhanced sentencing
- Kidnapping in the second degree
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.