KRS 610.050: Temporary change in custody.

If it appears to the court, by affidavit or by sworn testimony, that the child is a danger to

himself or the community, or is in such condition or surroundings that his welfare is

being harmed or threatened with harm to such a degree that his best interest requires that

his custody be immediately changed by the court from the original custodian to another,

the judge may sign an order giving temporary custody of the child to a suitable custodian

consenting to temporary custody. However, if this case involves allegations of

dependency, neglect, or abuse, no emergency removal or temporary custody orders shall

be effective unless the provisions of KRS Chapter 620 are followed; and, if the case

involves allegations of mental illness, the provisions of KRS Chapter 645 shall be

followed. As a part of such order, the court may direct that the child shall be taken into

custody by the peace officer serving the summons or by any other peace officer and

placed as directed by the court. In any event, a copy of the tempora ry custody order shall

be served on the parent, guardian or other person exercising custodial control or

supervision of the child when the summons is served. The temporary custody order shall

be effective until the case is heard on its merits or until modi fied by the court. As a result

of such order, the child shall be placed in custody and care in a home or other suitable

facility.