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 Colorado, contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a serious criminal offense outlined under Colorado Revised Statutes 18-6-701. This statute makes it illegal for any person to induce, aid, or encourage a minor to violate any law, or to act in a way that would make the minor a dependent, neglected, or delinquent child under the law. The term 'minor' refers to anyone under the age of 18. Examples of such conduct include providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, encouraging minors to commit crimes, or assisting them in unlawful activities. This offense is classified as a class 4 felony in Colorado, which can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The law applies to all adults, not just parents or guardians, and does not require that the adult have custody or control over the minor at the time of the offense.