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 Vermont, contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a criminal offense outlined under Vermont Statutes Title 13, Section 1301. This law makes it unlawful for any person to act in a way that causes a child under the age of 18 to engage in delinquent behavior. Delinquent behavior is defined as any act that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult. The statute is not limited to parents or guardians; any adult who encourages, facilitates, or otherwise contributes to a minor's engagement in unlawful conduct can be charged with this offense. Examples of such behavior include providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, encouraging minors to commit crimes, or assisting them in doing so. Penalties for this offense may include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances surrounding the offense.