Bergen County Grand Jury Returns two Counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child against a 22 year old Mother

A twenty-two year old, mother of two, has been indicted by a Bergen County Grand Jury on two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4. The indictment stems from an incident back on April 12, 2013, where the mother crashed her car coming over the George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee New Jersey. It is alleged that the mother was operating her vehicle while she was under the influence of marijuana, in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.

It is unclear from the initial reports whether or not any one was injured as a result of the accident. However, it is important to note here that to be convicted of endangering the welfare of a child, the state does not need to prove that the child was actually injured as a result of the accident. The state Division of Child Protection and Permanency took custody of the two children however, they were immediately released to another family member. The defendant was taken to the Bergen County Jail and issued a bail of $50,000. Records indicate that the defendant has since been released.

The defendant was indicated on two counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the second degree. If convicted, the defendant faces up to ten years in a New Jersey State Prison on each count. If you or someone you know has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, dwi, assault by auto, death by auto in towns like Elmwood Park, Midland Park, River Vale, Saddle Brook or Tenafly, the Law Offices of Marshall, Bonus, Proetta & Oliver can help. We have over 100 years of combined experience on staff, including over twenty-five years of prosecuting experience. If you have any questions please contact any one of our Bergen County Offices at 1-800-682-4037 for free initial consultation.