At the core of any charge for recklessly endangering another person, is the question of whether your action was actually reckless — or simply negligent. It is important to retain an attorney who understands the difference and can provide you with a strong defense.
Reckless Behavior
In Pennsylvania, recklessly endangering another person, known as REAP, means that your behavior could have, or did, place someone else in danger of death or serious bodily injury. For example, if you try out your new gun by firing it indiscriminately in your yard.
For your action to be reckless, you would need to know that your behavior posed a substantial risk to others but you engaged in it anyway.
How REAP Charges Can Harm You
Recklessly endangerment of another person is a misdemeanor of the second degree. You can face up to two years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.
When your employer finds out you were arrested for a crime that involved endangering other people, it can also have a damaging impact on your employment and you may even lose your job.
If convicted, you will have a criminal record that can impact your ability to maintain or obtain employment, join the military, acquire security clearance or certain types of professional licenses, or be eligible for financial aid.
Steps to Take if You Have Been Charged
If you have been charged with recklessly endangering another person, your first step should be to immediately research and find a defense attorney. Reckless endangerment can impact custodial agreements, your relationship with family and friends, and more. You also may be held liable for injuries or accidents related to the offense.
Don’t talk to the police or prosecutors unless your attorney is with you.
When you meet with your lawyer, tell them everything that happened including the names of any possible witnesses. It is important to give your attorney the information he or she needs to prove that your actions were unintentional. If you have any evidence that your actions were negligent instead of reckless, be sure to discuss it with your lawyer.
Questions? Contact me.
Your rights are at stake and you need the best defense to keep them. I will fight using the strongest defense available to get your Reckless Endangerment of Another Person charge reduced or dismissed so you can move on with your life.
