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 Idaho, involuntary manslaughter is addressed under Idaho Code § 18-4006. According to this statute, involuntary manslaughter is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being without malice, expressed or implied, and without an intention to do so. It occurs in the commission of an unlawful act not amounting to a felony, or in the commission of a lawful act which might produce death, in an unlawful manner, or without due caution and circumspection. This offense is considered a felony in Idaho. The punishment for involuntary manslaughter under Idaho law can include imprisonment in the state prison for up to 10 years. As with other states, the specifics of the charge can depend on the circumstances of the case, including the level of negligence or recklessness involved. An attorney can provide more detailed information on how these laws may apply to specific situations.