Everything You Need to Know About Wanton Endangerment

Anyone can end up in danger. However, putting another person at harm’s risk is an offense in the U.S. under the Wanton Endangerment doctrine. It highlights actions like reckless driving as punishable offenses because you’ll endanger pedestrians and other motorists. 

There are a couple of things you should know about Wanton Endangerment, primarily the actions that attract harsh penalties. In this article, we’ll dive into everything regarding Wanton Endangerment, reviewing what it is, examples of the most dangerous offenses, and potential penalties. Let's get started!

Wanton Endangerment Definition and Distinctions

If you’re still confused, Wanton Endangerment (wanton disregard) is the conscious and intentional action that can lead to injuries or even death to another person/ people. Based on the degree of recklessness, the offense is distinct from other crimes, such as negligence, which only involves careless behavior. 

Wanton disregard can be categorized as first and second-degree offenses. First-degree intentional actions are Class D felony offenses, typically involving extreme behaviors that can lead to severe injuries or death. You risk not less than a five-year prison term under this count. 

Meanwhile, second-degree Wanton Endangerment leads to relatively low-risk damage, thus falling under Class A misdemeanor.

Examples of Wanton Endangerment Offences

Here are examples of Wanton Endangerment behaviors: 

1.Firing a Weapon into a Crowd

Carelessly aiming and shooting your gun at a crowd is a chargeable offense. This also applies to officers since you’ll put multiple individuals even when targeting a suspect. A typical example is firing a gun without aim in a crowded bar or concert venue. 

2.Dropping Objects from a High Place

Throwing objects from a high place, like a building or bridge, can be a potential danger to multiple parties. A notable example of such behavior is throwing objects from a skyscraper, which can endanger passersby and crowds near the building. 

3.Starting a Fire Without Caution  

If you’re looking to set a fire on your ranch or backyard, ensure no one is near the area. Also, avoid starting a fire near an overcrowded or populated area. This can endanger kids who are mostly curious and may be intrigued to see what can happen around bushfires. 

4.Abandoning a Child in a Dangerous Situation

Yes, abandoning a child in a dangerous situation, such as a remote location, falls under Wanton Endangerment. Therefore, leaving a kid unattended in a parked car on a hot day without considering the risk of heatstroke could attract harsh penalties.

5.Indecent Sexual Exposure 

Indecent sexual exposure is a serious offense despite falling under the Class A misdemeanor. The penalties are more severe when individuals expose themselves to children. Further legal actions are taken when a party intends to assault a minor in any way. 

How the Court Handles Wanton Endangerment Cases

Usually, the court must confirm the state of mind of a wanton case suspect. This will help establish whether the individual truly meant to hurt the victims. Moreover, the defendant's lawyers use this tactic to convince jurors to judge their clients differently. Nonetheless, you risk penalties under the Class A and D misdemeanor charges if found guilty. 

Examples of Suspects Charged Under Wanton Charges: The Killing of Breonna Taylor

A notable case is the murder of Breonna Taylor, where Officer Brett Hankison was found guilty of intentionally killing the 26-year-old. He was charged under three counts of Class D misdemeanor charges.

Conclusion

That's everything you need to know regarding the Wanton Endangerment. Specific actions attract different penalties ranging from Class A and D misdemeanor charges. Some, like child neglect, might fall under second-degree but can be judged differently, considering the state of the victims. Check the examples provided to understand which actions fall under Wanton's disregard.