It is a Class 6 felony for any parent, guardian, or custodian to knowingly permit physical or sexual abuse of a child.

It is an affirmative defense, to be proven by clear and convincing evidence, to prosecution under this section if, at the time of the offense, there was a reasonable belief that acting to stop or to prevent the abuse would result in substantial bodily harm to the defendant or the child in retaliation.

Attorney's Note

Under the South Dakota Laws, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:
ClassPrisonFine
Class 6 felonyup to 2 yearsup to $4,000
For details, see § 22-6-1

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Terms Used In South Dakota Codified Laws 26-10-30

  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.

Source: SL 2006, ch 146, § 1.