Involuntary manslaughter is a criminal offense defined as the unintentional killing (homicide) of another person as a result of criminal negligence, recklessness, or during the commission of a misdemeanor (driving while intoxicated), infraction (speeding), or a felony crime that was not inherently dangerous. Involuntary manslaughter is usually a felony offense and often includes significant jail or prison time as potential punishment.
Involuntary manslaughter laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In Arizona, involuntary manslaughter is classified as a Class 4 felony under Arizona Revised Statutes Section 13-1103. This law defines involuntary manslaughter as recklessly causing the death of another person. Recklessness, in this context, means that the person was aware of and disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that their conduct would result in the death of another. The term 'recklessly' is a key element of the offense and distinguishes it from negligent homicide, which involves a lower standard of culpability. Involuntary manslaughter in Arizona does not require the intent to kill, but it does require that the individual's actions were reckless enough to result in death. Penalties for a Class 4 felony in Arizona can include imprisonment, fines, and other consequences. The specific sentence can vary based on the circumstances of the case and the defendant's criminal history.