Involuntary manslaughter is, under Wisconsin law, considered reckless homicide. If you’ve been accused of this crime, you may want to get in touch with a Milwaukee criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. That’s because there can be serious consequences if you’re convicted.
Involuntary Manslaughter: What You Need to Know
In Wisconsin, there are statutes that cover:
- Second-degree reckless homicide
- Homicide resulting from negligent control of a vicious animal
- Homicide by negligent handling of a dangerous weapon, explosives or fire
- Homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle or firearm
- Homicide by negligent operation of a vehicle
Let’s take a closer look at each.
Second-Degree Reckless Homicide
This crime involves recklessly causing the death of another person or an unborn child. In order for the state to convict you of second-degree reckless homicide, it must show that you acted with criminal recklessness, which means that you created an unreasonable and substantial risk of death or serious physical harm. You must also have been aware of that risk.
Homicide Resulting From Negligent Control of a Vicious Animal
This type of homicide occurs when an animal kills a human, provided the human has been as cautious as possible around the animal and the animal’s owner or handler knows it can be vicious, but still lets it run free or fails to keep it carefully.
Homicide by Negligent Handling of a Dangerous Weapon, Explosives or Fire
This crime involves causing the death of another person by negligently handling or operating a dangerous weapon, like a firearm, air gun, knives or bows and arrows. It can also involve the use of explosives (including fireworks) or fire.
Homicide by Intoxicated Use of a Vehicle or Firearm
This type of involuntary manslaughter involves intoxication and the use of a vehicle or firearm. Drunk driving cases that result in death often include a charge like this, as do cases where the party handling a firearm is drunk and shoots someone.
Homicide by Negligent Operation of a Vehicle
This crime involves causing someone’s death through negligent operation of any vehicle. For example, running a red light and causing a crash that resulted in death could result in this charge.
Have You Been Accused of Involuntary Manslaughter?
If you’ve been accused of any of these types of involuntary manslaughter, or if you’ve received another charge, we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 to schedule a free consultation today.
