§ 3–605
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-605 (2026)
Title 3. Other Crimes Against the Person
Subtitle 6. Abuse and Other Offensive Conduct
§ 3–605LinkCopy Citation
(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.