Arkansas law defines child endangerment as knowingly or recklessly causing or allowing a child under the age of 14 to be placed in a situation in which the child's life or health is endangered or seriously impaired.
Penalties for Child Endangerment in Arkansas
The penalties for child endangerment vary depending on the circumstances of the case.
First-degree Child Endangerment
If the child is under the age of 12 and the child's life is endangered or seriously impaired, the offender can be charged with first-degree child endangerment which is a Class B felony.
If convicted, the offender faces up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $15,000.
Second-degree Child Endangerment
If the child is under the age of 14 and the child's health is endangered or seriously impaired, the offender can be charged with second-degree child endangerment, which is a Class A misdemeanor.
If convicted, the offender faces up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
Defenses to Child Endangerment
There are a number of defenses that can be asserted to a child endangerment charge. These defenses include:
Lack of knowledge: The offender did not know that the child was in a dangerous situation.
Lack of control: The offender did not have control over the situation and could not prevent the child from being placed in a dangerous situation.
Consent: The child's parent or guardian consented to the child being placed in a dangerous situation.
Child Endangerment Laws are Serious
Child endangerment laws are serious and should not be taken lightly. If you are accused of child endangerment, it is important to contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and develop a strong defense.