The statute of limitations does not apply in which of the following circumstances?

The statute of limitations is a legal time frame within which a prosecution must be initiated. If the time limit expires, the legal action can no longer proceed. However, in the case where a defendant is a fugitive, the statute of limitations does not apply. This means that the time limit is essentially paused or tolled, allowing for prosecution to occur once the individual is apprehended. The rationale is that the person is actively avoiding legal consequences, which makes it unreasonable to enforce a time limit in pursuing justice.

In contrast, felonies, misdemeanors, and white-collar crimes typically have prescribed statute of limitations periods that may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the crime. However, these statutes go into effect only when the accused is located and can be brought to trial.