What defines felony child abuse?

The definition of felony child abuse is rooted in the severity of the harm inflicted upon a child. Inflicting serious bodily injury signifies a significant degree of physical damage that goes beyond minor or superficial injuries. This definition captures the gravity of child abuse that warrants felony charges, particularly when it involves a child under the age of 16.

In this context, the focus is on both the intent behind the action and the extent of harm caused. Serious bodily injury is characterized as an injury that creates a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, or long-term impairment of bodily function. Such actions are taken seriously within the legal framework, leading to consequences that reflect the severity of the crime.

The other options are less aligned with the criteria for felony child abuse. Minor injuries, acts of neglect without physical harm, or allowing a child to engage in petty theft do not rise to the level of serious bodily injury. They may represent abuse or neglect in some form but do not meet the specific legal threshold to be classified as felony child abuse. Hence, the focus on serious bodily injury in the definition reflects a crucial aspect of protecting children from severe harm.