2020 Maryland Statutes
Criminal Law
Title 3 - Other Crimes Against the Person
Subtitle 6 - Abuse and Other Offensive Conduct
Section 3-605 - Abuse or Neglect of a Vulnerable Adult in the Second Degree
(a) This section does not apply to abuse that involves sexual abuse of a vulnerable adult.
(b) (1) A caregiver, a parent, or other person who has permanent or temporary care or responsibility for the supervision of a vulnerable adult may not:
(i) cause abuse or neglect of the vulnerable adult; or
(ii) intentionally and maliciously inflict severe emotional distress on the vulnerable adult.
(2) A household member or family member may not:
(i) cause abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult; or
(ii) intentionally and maliciously inflict severe emotional distress on a vulnerable adult.
(c) A person who violates this section is guilty of the misdemeanor of abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult in the second degree and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.
(d) A sentence imposed under this section shall be in addition to any other sentence imposed for a conviction arising from the same facts and circumstances unless the evidence required to prove each crime is substantially identical.
