If you were charged with reckless endangerment in Lancaster County, PA, your rights are at risk. The penalties for this offense can be very serious, including jail time and high fines. You may even lose certain civil rights, such as the right to own a firearm. As a "violent" crime, the charge will remain on your criminal record.
Just because you are charged with this crime does not mean that you are guilty of it. An experienced Lancaster County Reckless Endangerment attorney can fight back against these charges to defend your legal rights. You do not have to face this difficult time by yourself.
Reckless Endangerment Charges in Lancaster County, PA
Reckless endangerment is a crime defined at Pen. Consolidated Statutes Title 18 § 2705. It happens when a person engages in certain acts or conduct that places another person in serious danger of sustaining bodily injury or death.
The definition of this offense covers a wide variety of different acts. These different behaviors and acts can all lead to a criminal charge. Some examples of reckless endangerment include, but are far from limited to:
- firing a gun into the air in public
- driving a car at incredibly high speeds with others around
- dropping objects off of an overpass in order to hit cars
While these examples demonstrate the types of acts that may be considered a criminal offense, there are many more out there.
Is Intent Important?
A Pennsylvania prosecutor does not have to prove that the defendant intended to cause any harm or death to prove a charge of reckless endangerment. It is enough for the prosecutor to show that the defendant acted recklessly or carelessly in his or her actions and that those actions that could have resulted in serious injury or death.
Penalties for Reckless Endangerment in Pennsylvania
In most cases, a reckless endangerment charge in Pennsylvania is a second-degree misdemeanor. This may not be as serious as a felony charge, but the penalties associated with it are still very serious. The following include the possible penalties:
- a maximum possible jail term of up to 2 years
- a maximum fine of $5,000
This is also considered a "violent crime." This means that the offense can remain on your record, and not be subject to having it sealed from your record. You may also lose your right to carry a firearm.
Defenses to the Charge
With the help of a knowledgeable Pennsylvania reckless endangerment attorney at your side, you can present a defense uniquely prepared for your case. Examples of possible defenses include, but are not limited to:
- Filing a suppression motion to exclude evidence that was illegally collected
- Proving that your conduct was not reckless
- Show that your actions were not a serious threat to the safety of others
Consult an Experienced Lancaster County Reckless Endangerment Attorney
While this is a serious charge, you are not without hope. There are defenses that can be raised on your behalf that can result in lesser charges or even a dismissal of the charges against you. Our Criminal Law Team has the years of experience necessary to protect your rights.
An experienced Lancaster County Reckless Endangerment Attorney can protect your constitutional rights. Call (888) 535-3686 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation of your case.
