Michigan law prohibits encouraging or contributing to the neglect or delinquency of minors under 17, and criminalizes enticing or soliciting children under 16 for immoral or illegal acts. Violations can result in misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Any act or words that encourage, contribute to, or cause a minor under 17 to become neglected or delinquent, bringing them under juvenile court jurisdiction, are prohibited.
The offense is a felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison, a fine of up to $4,000, or both.
No, the law applies regardless of whether the person knows the child's actual age or believes they are under 16.
Yes, a person can be guilty of contributing to neglect or delinquency even if the child is not formally adjudicated a ward of the probate court.