Contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a criminal offense that is generally governed by state laws, and located in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes). The crime is usually defined as an adult knowingly persuading, inducing, enticing, encouraging, assisting, or facilitating a minor to engage in conduct that would constitute a violation of state or federal law, or of a municipal or local ordinance.

Some common examples of contributing to the delinquency of a minor include:

• purchasing or providing alcoholic beverages for minors;

• providing illegal drugs to minors;

• allowing minors to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol in your presence;

• providing a fake ID to enable a minor to enter a bar, casino, or other adult-only establishment;

• accompanying a minor while the minor commits a criminal act;

• asking, encouraging, or persuading a minor to commit a crime;

• asking or allowing a minor to assist you in committing a crime; and

• encouraging or assisting a minor in driving a vehicle without a license or permit.

In some states the criminal offense of contributing to the delinquency of a minor only applies to parents, guardians, or other adults who had custody and control of the minor at the time of the crime. But in other states any adult who contributes to the delinquency of a minor—as defined by the relevant state statute—may be subject to criminal prosecution.

In Illinois, contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a criminal offense outlined under 720 ILCS 5/12C-30 of the Illinois Compiled Statutes. This law makes it illegal for any person to knowingly or willfully cause, aid, or encourage a minor under 18 years of age to become a delinquent minor. A 'delinquent minor' is defined as any minor who violates any federal or state law, county or municipal ordinance, or who is absent from home without consent of a parent or legal guardian. Examples of contributing to the delinquency of a minor in Illinois include providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, facilitating a minor's engagement in criminal activities, or aiding a minor in acts that would lead them to become delinquent. The offense is not limited to parents or guardians; any adult who engages in such conduct with a minor can be charged. Penalties for this offense can include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances surrounding the offense.