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 Missouri, contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a criminal offense outlined under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 568.040. The statute defines the offense as an act by any person who aids, encourages, or causes a child under the age of seventeen to engage in any conduct which would cause the child to be adjudged a juvenile delinquent or a child in need of care and treatment. This includes providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, facilitating illegal activities, or encouraging minors to engage in criminal behavior. The offense is not limited to parents or guardians; any adult who contributes to a minor's delinquency can be charged. Depending on the circumstances, the crime can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, with penalties varying based on the severity of the offense and the harm to the minor.