All American states treat violent crimes resulting in death quite seriously. Kentucky is no exception and has several criminal laws in place governing the state’s response to an unlawful loss of life. As you might expect, a conviction on any charges related to the death of another person comes with serious, life-changing consequences.
Felony murder is a capital offense in Kentucky, which means that defendants could receive the death penalty if a conviction occurs. However, the state also recognizes that crimes leading to death may not always deserve a death sentence. Below you will find two other charges that may be used in place of murder.
- Manslaughter: The main difference between manslaughter and murder is that murder involves the element of intent. Still, it is vital to note that either charge is serious. If the defendant had no intention of killing the victim, he or she may face a manslaughter charge instead of murder, which usually rules out the death penalty.
- Reckless homicide: In cases where the defendant acted in a reckless manner leading to the loss of another’s life, he or she may face a charge of reckless homicide. Although less serious than murder or manslaughter charges, a reckless homicide conviction could still lead to a prison sentence.
Those charged with any violent crimes should consider developing a solid defense as soon as possible. Following the guidance of an experienced criminal law attorney can help defendants avoid the harshest consequences. Your lawyer can act quickly to investigate the details of your alleged crime and then work with you to acquire the best possible outcome for your case.