Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other person with responsibility for the child to provide the food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision necessary for the child's health, safety, and well-being. Placing the child in physically or emotionally harmful situations is also child neglect. Courts take child neglect seriously, and a parent or other person with custody of the child who is guilty of child neglect may lose custody of the child, and may face criminal charges.
In South Dakota, child neglect is defined as the failure of a parent or guardian to provide necessary basic care and necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision that are essential for a child's well-being. This also includes exposing the child to physically or emotionally harmful situations. South Dakota law takes allegations of child neglect seriously. If a parent or guardian is found guilty of neglect, they may face significant legal consequences, including the loss of custody and potential criminal charges. The state's statutes outline the responsibilities of parents and guardians and provide for the intervention of child protective services and the courts to ensure the safety and welfare of children. Criminal charges for child neglect can range from misdemeanor to felony, depending on the severity of the neglect and the harm to the child.