Is Contributing To The Delinquency Of A Minor A Serious Crime?
It depends on the circumstances. Generally speaking, a conviction for contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a Class 2 misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
However, if the child involved is endangered or suffers other serious harm as a result of the defendant’s actions, the charge can be elevated to a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Additionally, if the defendant has previously been convicted of contributing to the delinquency of a minor or any other crime involving children, he or she may be subject to more severe penalties.
For example, a second conviction for contributing to the delinquency of a minor can be charged as a Class 6 felony, which is punishable by up to 18 months in prison and/or a fine of $500 to $5,000.
What does it mean to contribute to the delinquency of a minor?
Contributing to the delinquency of a minor comes down to causing or encouraging delinquent behavior in someone under the age of 18. Depending on the circumstances, this can include things like: allowing your child to stay out past curfew; getting them alcohol or other controlled substances even if you are unaware they are drinking or using drugs; dropping them off at an unsupervised party; taking your 15 year old son or daughter across state lines for abortion without their parent’s consent
A contributing to the delinquency of a minor crime in Colorado Springs can be charged when an adult helps, encourages, or facilitates a juvenile’s delinquent act. This crime is a Class 4 felony and can result in up to 12 months imprisonment and/or a $2,000 fine.
Some common scenarios that could lead to a charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor include:
-Helping a juvenile purchase alcohol or cigarettes
-Allowing a juvenile to drive your car without permission or a license
-Leaving firearms within reach of juveniles
-Providing drugs or shelter to a runaway juvenile
-Encouraging juveniles to skip school or commit other crimes
If you are accused of contributing to the delinquency of a minor in Colorado Springs, call McClintock Criminal Defense today for a free consultation at (719) 520-3968. We may be able to have your charges reduced or even dropped entirely depending on your case.
Colorado CRS 18-6-701
Any person who aids or encourages a child to violate any federal or state law, municipal or county ordinance, or court order commits the crime of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. This is a class 4 felony (18-6-701). The parent, guardian, or legal custodian of the minor is required to attend all court proceedings concerning the minor. Failure to do so may subject the parent, guardian, or legal custodian to contempt sanctions (19-2-109).
Any Contributing To The Delinquency Of A Minor charge must be immediately defended vigorously. The implications of a conviction under this statute could negatively affect your life permanently. Contact a criminal defense attorney experienced in defending clients against this potentially severe charge to discuss your case today – (719) 520-3968.
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