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 Louisiana (LA), contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a criminal offense outlined under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 14:92. This statute makes it illegal for any adult to encourage, entice, or otherwise persuade a minor to engage in unlawful behavior. This includes providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, facilitating their consumption of such substances, providing false identification, or being complicit in any criminal acts committed by a minor. The law applies not only to parents and guardians but to any adult who influences a minor to partake in illegal activities. Violation of this statute can result in significant legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. The specific penalties can vary depending on the nature of the offense and the adult's role in contributing to the minor's delinquency.