# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 3. Other Crimes Against the Person

### Subtitle 6. Abuse and Other Offensive Conduct

#### Section 3-605

(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.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)