Arkansas § 5-27-221 - Permitting abuse of a minor.
Full text of Arkansas Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-27-221 — Permitting abuse of a minor., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-27-221. Permitting abuse of a minor.
A person commits the offense of permitting abuse of a minor if, being a parent, guardian, or person legally charged with the care or custody of a minor, he or she recklessly fails to take action to prevent the abuse of a minor. It is a defense to a prosecution for the offense of permitting abuse of a minor if the parent, guardian, or person legally charged with the care or custody of the minor takes immediate steps to end the abuse of the minor, including prompt notification of a medical or law enforcement authority, upon first knowing or having good reason to know that abuse has occurred. Permitting abuse of a minor is a: Class B felony if the abuse of the minor: Consisted of sexual intercourse; Consisted of deviate sexual activity; or Caused serious physical injury or death to the minor; or Class D felony if the abuse of the minor: Consisted of sexual contact; or Caused physical injury to the minor. As used in this section: “Abuse” means only sexual intercourse, deviate sexual activity, sexual contact, or causing physical injury, serious physical injury, or death, which could be prosecuted as a delinquent or criminal act; and “Minor” means a person under eighteen (18) years of age.
Source: official Arkansas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas § 5-27-221
What does Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-27-221 cover?
Section 5-27-221 ("Permitting abuse of a minor.") is part of the Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Arkansas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arkansas § 5-27-221?
A common citation format is "Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-27-221" (Arkansas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arkansas law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arkansas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arkansas attorney.
How does Arkansas § 5-27-221 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arkansas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.