When a child is physically harmed by an adult in Denver or Jefferson County, Child Abuse charges usually follow. But, there are provisions under the statute that allow the state to charge Child Abuse even if the child does not sustain any injuries. This was the case for a mother whose 3-year-old child was found wandering the streets. The first time it happened, the mother was able to come pick the boy up with no criminal ramifications. Later in the day, when it happened again, she was charged with Child Abuse. While this example is a bit on the extreme, we have dealt with multiple cases where a child wanders from home for just minutes before his parents find him. Losing a barely clothes twice in one day, was felt to be an adequate basis for charges of Child Abuse.

Facing Child Abuse charges?

Adams County Child Abuse Lawyer: What is the Definition of Child Abuse in Broomfield County?

The Adams and Broomfield County, Colorado law definition of Child Abuse – C.R.S. 18-6-401 – is:

“A person commits child abuse if such person causes an injury to a child's life or health, or permits a child to be unreasonably placed in a situation that poses a threat of injury to the child's life or health, or engages in a continued pattern of conduct that results in malnourishment, lack of proper medical care, cruel punishment, mistreatment, or an accumulation of injuries that ultimately results in the death of a child or serious bodily injury to a child.”

In situations where no physical harm comes to the child, Child Abuse charges are usually justified through claims that the child was placed in a dangerous situation. A child wandering into the street or away from home definitely can be dangerous. Sometimes accidents happen and a sneaky child escapes. We know that isn't abuse, but the law doesn't seem to allow for accidents.

Sentence for Wandering Child Abuse with No Injuries in Douglas and Arapahoe County

Child Abuse where no death or injury results can be charged as a class 2 misdemeanor or class 3 misdemeanor in Arapahoe or Douglas County, depending on intent. Acting knowingly or recklessly, will result in a class 2 misdemeanor, whereas acting with criminal negligence will be charged as a class 3 misdemeanor.

Get Help Now

If you or a loved one has been charged with Child Abuse, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best Child Abuse attorneys from the O'Malley Law Office at 303-830-0880 today. Together, we can protect your future.Request a Free Consultation

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