Involuntary manslaughter is a criminal offense defined as the unintentional killing (homicide) of another person as a result of criminal negligence, recklessness, or during the commission of a misdemeanor (driving while intoxicated), infraction (speeding), or a felony crime that was not inherently dangerous. Involuntary manslaughter is usually a felony offense and often includes significant jail or prison time as potential punishment.
Involuntary manslaughter laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In Connecticut, involuntary manslaughter, also referred to as 'manslaughter in the second degree,' is defined under Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-56. This statute states that a person is guilty of manslaughter in the second degree when they cause the death of another person due to recklessness or in the commission of an unlawful act that results in death. It is a Class C felony in Connecticut, which can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The specific circumstances of the offense, such as the level of recklessness or the nature of the unlawful act, can affect the severity of the charges and the potential punishment. It is important to note that Connecticut law distinguishes between different degrees of manslaughter, with involuntary manslaughter typically being less severe than voluntary manslaughter, which involves an intentional act.