In the state of New York, including Nassau County and the rest of Long Island, child endangerment charges are taken very seriously. They can result in serious criminal consequences, including jail time and a permanent criminal record, that have the potential to impact a person for the rest of their life. These charges may arise when someone is alleged to have harmed a child’s physical, mental, or emotional wellbeing. It is because of this that individuals facing these situations should retain the services of an experienced New York criminal defense attorney to receive help in protecting their future.

What Is Child Endangerment in New York?

Under New York Penal Law §260.10, child endangerment is defined as knowingly acting in a manner that is likely to harm a child under 17, even if no injury occurs.

In New York, including Garden City, Hempstead, Uniondale, and the surrounding Long Island communities, child endangerment occurs when someone knowingly places a child under the age of 17 into a situation that is likely to negatively impact or harm their physical, mental, or moral well-being. The severity of the charge will depend on the nature of the action and any aggravating circumstances that may be present.

Key Elements of Child Endangerment

  • A person knowingly acts in a manner that is likely to cause harm to a child under 17
  • Can include both direct and indirect harm, even if no injury occurs
  • Applies to parents, guardians, or any adult responsible for the well-being of the child
  • Charges can arise from instances of abuse, neglect, or exposing a child to dangerous environments
  • The prosecution must prove awareness of risk, not necessarily intent to cause harm

What Are the Different Levels of Child Endangerment?

There are different levels of child endangerment charges in the state of New York. The charge a person can receive varies depending on the act that was committed.

Classification of Charges

  • Class A Misdemeanor: Given to individuals who endanger the welfare of a child, unlawfully deal with a child in the first-degree, misrepresentation by a child daycare provider, or individuals convicted of non-support of a child in the first degree.
  • Class B Misdemeanor: Given to those who unlawfully deal with a child in the second degree.
  • Class E Felony: Given to those who are convicted of abandoning a child or in the event of non-support in the first degree.

What Is an Escalated Child Endangerment Charge?

There are many cases in which a person can be found committing two crimes at once. When a person is found to be committing a crime at the same time they are endangering the welfare of a child, it is known as escalated child endangerment.

Common Examples of Escalated Charges

  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a minor in the vehicle
  • Committing domestic violence in front of a minor
  • Leaving a child in an unsafe environment while committing another criminal offense
  • Drug-related offenses occurring near or involving a child

What Penalties Can You Face for Child Endangerment on Long Island?

If you are charged with and subsequently convicted of child endangerment on Long Island, the penalties imposed by the court can be severe. However, the severity of these charges is dependent on the classification of the offense and the specific facts of the case.

Sentencing Overview

  • Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail
  • Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 364 days in jail and potential fines
  • Class E Felony: Potential for up to four years in prison
  • Possible probation, mandatory counseling, and participation in parenting courses
  • Potential involvement from Child Protective Services (CPS)

What Should You Do if You Are Facing Charges in New York?

If you have been charged with child endangerment on Long Island, understanding how to proceed is critical, as the steps you take in the immediate aftermath can have a considerable impact on the outcome of your case.

Important Steps to Take

  • Do not speak to law enforcement without legal representation
  • Keep all copies of relevant documents
  • Do not contact the alleged victims
  • Familiarize yourself with your rights as a criminal defendant
  • Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible

Contact Our Nassau County Criminal Defense Firm

Criminal matters can change the course of your life forever. This is why you need an experienced attorney who will aggressively combat your charges to help mitigate their long-term effects. If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for a criminal defense matter on Long Island or throughout New York State, please contact KCS Law to schedule a consultation. We would be happy to assist you.