Can inappropriate comments to a minor lead to child endangerment charges?

Full question:

Does saying something inappropriate to a minor constitute the charge of endangering the welfare of a child?

  • Category: Courts
  • Subcategory: Legal Definitions
  • Date:
  • State: New York

Answer:

The answer depends on the specifics of what was said and the circumstances involved. In New York, a person is guilty of endangering the welfare of a child if they:

  1. Knowingly act in a way that could harm a child's physical, mental, or moral welfare, or direct a child to engage in a dangerous occupation.
  2. As a parent, guardian, or person responsible for a child, fail to exercise reasonable control to prevent the child from becoming abused, neglected, or involved in delinquency.

This offense is classified as a class A misdemeanor under NY law (N.Y. Penal Law § 260.10).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

The crime elements of child endangerment typically include knowingly acting in a way that could harm a child's physical, mental, or moral welfare. This can also involve failing to provide reasonable care or supervision to prevent a child from being abused or neglected. In New York, these actions can lead to charges under N.Y. Penal Law § 260.10.