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 Hawaii, contributing to the delinquency of a minor is addressed under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 577-1. This statute makes it an offense for any person to cause, encourage, or contribute to the delinquency of a minor. The term 'delinquency' encompasses any act that would render the minor subject to the jurisdiction of the family court, which typically includes conduct that would be considered criminal if committed by an adult. Examples of such conduct include providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, facilitating underage drinking or drug use, providing false identification, or involving minors in criminal activities. The law in Hawaii does not limit the offense to parents or guardians; any adult who engages in the prohibited conduct with a minor can be charged with this crime. Violations of this statute can result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and the circumstances involved.