Definition - What does Reckless Endangerment mean?
Reckless endangerment is a criminal offense where a person’s actions cause substantial threat of physical harm, or death, to another person. The intention of the person performing the act is irrelevant in a charge of reckless endangerment. However, the person must be proven to have deliberately disregarded the safety of another person.
SureHire explains Reckless Endangerment
Reckless endangerment is treated as a misdemeanor or felony crime where a lethal weapon is involved in the action. In order to substantiate a charge of reckless endangerment, it must be proven that the perpetrator understood the risks involved in their actions and continued to act despite the possible consequences. This type of charge is usually made where domestic or child abuse has taken place, where medical malpractice has put a patient at risk, where a driver disobeys the rules of the road, or where workplace safety has failed to address risks or enforce rules. Reckless endangerment charges can carry penalties in the form of fines or jail time.
