Contributing to Delinquency or Dependency of a Child

Elements marked AND are cumulative. Elements marked OR identify statutory alternatives; one applicable alternative must be established when that theory is charged. Conditional elements apply only to the identified statutory track.

1. Element 1

   OR — Alternative

   General-contributing track — choose one conduct alternative

   For the general-contributing track, the defendant knowingly caused, tended to cause, encouraged, or contributed to a child becoming delinquent, dependent, or in need of services; or knowingly induced or endeavored to induce that status by act, threat, command, or persuasion.

   Plain language: A juvenile adjudication is not required. Select one statutory conduct alternative and document the child-status theory.

2. Element 2

   AND — Required

   Separate adult-impregnation track — all facts required

   For the separate felony track, the defendant was 21 years of age or older and impregnated a child younger than 16 years of age.

   Plain language: This is an alternative charge track, not an additional element of the general offense; consent and lack of chastity are not defenses.