Negligent manslaughter | UCR Definition

Negligent manslaughter, as defined by the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports (UCR), refers to the killing of another person without malice but as a result of criminal negligence or recklessness.

Negligent manslaughter is also known as involuntary manslaughter.

Under UCR guidelines, negligent manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another person through conduct that is criminally negligent, but without the intent to cause harm. This may involve a failure to exercise reasonable care or caution in a situation where such care is required, or a failure to recognize and respond appropriately to a foreseeable risk of harm.

Examples of conduct that may lead to a charge of negligent manslaughter include reckless driving, mishandling of a weapon, failure to properly maintain or secure equipment, or failure to provide adequate medical care.

Negligent manslaughter is distinguished from other forms of manslaughter, such as voluntary manslaughter or heat of passion manslaughter, which involve intentional or reckless conduct with the intent to cause harm. Negligent manslaughter is considered a less severe offense than murder or non-negligent manslaughter, as it does not involve the intent to cause harm or malice aforethought.