Child Abuse Laws in Arizona
In Arizona, child abuse laws, which also govern the abuse of vulnerable adults in equal measure, are detailed in A.R.S. 13-3623. Abuse of a child relates to circumstances in which the child is put into a situation which is likely to result in serious injury or death by the person who is meant to care for them.
- An intentional act of child abuse is a class 2 felony, which could result in up to 12.5 years of incarceration for a first-time offender.
- A reckless act of child abuse (general disregard or carelessness) is a class 3 felony, which could result in up to 8.75 years of incarceration for a first-time offender.
- Child abuse done with criminal negligence (failing to understand the potential risks) is a class 4 felony, which could result in up to 3.75 years of incarceration for a first-time offender.
If a child is abused in a circumstance that was not likely to result in serious injury or death, there are still consequences. Under this section:
- Intentional child abuse is a class 4 felony, which could result in up to 3.75 years of incarceration for a first-time offender.
- Reckless child abuse (general disregard or carelessness) is a class 5 felony, which could result in up to 2.5 years of incarceration for a first-time offender.
- Criminally negligent child abuse (failing to understand the potential risks) is a class 6 felony, which could result in up to 2 years of incarceration for a first-time offender.
Child abuse charges can lead to involvement with the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS). If you find yourself being investigated by DCS, follow these steps. DCS will investigate child abuse reports such as:
- Physical injury
- Failure to thrive
- Malnutrition
- Internal injury
- Bruising, swelling, or hematoma
- Any sexual abuse, including assault and molestation
- Emotional abuse, such as severe anxiety or improper behavior
- Neglect, abandonment, or confinement
- Exploitation
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