We hate to think that our actions could constitute child endangerment in Oklahoma. Children are among the most vulnerable members of our society and we strive to protect them.
Yet, caring for child in Wagoner can be difficult. As adults, we are better equipped to deal with the difficulties that we encounter. From financial troubles to substance issues, parents face a number of difficult life situations. However, when we are plagued with these issues, it is the children we care for who are most often hurt by our actions.
As a result, all states have statutes in place to protect their children. These laws cover not only child endangerment in Oklahoma, but also child abuse and neglect in Wagoner.
What is Child Endangerment in Oklahoma?
Child endangerment in Oklahoma encompasses a number of possible situations that can be dangerous for a child to be involved in.
If an adult knowingly permits the physical or sexual abuse of a child, or knowingly allows a child to be present in a place where drugs are manufactured, the adult may be convicted of child endangerment. Okla. Stat. tit. 10A § 1-1-105
Child endangerment also encompasses physical dangers such as the exposure of a child to the chemicals and toxins involved in drug manufacturing of any kind. The manufacture of drugs is inherently dangerous to both children and adults.
Likewise, if an adult knowingly allows a child to be in a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver, both the consenting adult and the intoxicated driver could be convicted of child endangerment in Oklahoma.
Defenses to a Child Endangerment Charge are Few
An adult’s reasonable belief that an action to stop or prevent the dangerous situation would result in substantial bodily harm to the child, constitutes a valid defense to a child endangerment charge.
An example of this might be waiting until you get sufficient police help before approaching a perpetrator holding a child hostage.
In addition, refusing medical treatment on the basis of a religious preference for the use of prayer does not rise to the level of child endangerment as long as the refusal is made in good faith.
Penalties
Child endangerment in Oklahoma is a felony in Wagoner.
It is punishable by a jail term of up to up to four years.
In addition, the court can levy a fine against the perpetrator in an amount up to $5,000.
Initial Strategy Session: Wagoner Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are accused of child endangerment in Oklahoma, talk to an experienced Wagoner criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Do not wait and do not speak to the police. Remember that everything that you say to them can and will be used against you.
For a low-cost consultation, call Wirth Law Office – Wagoner at 918-485-0335.
As always, you have the option to enter a legal question in the form at the top right of this page.
