2025 Session Last amended: 1989 session

§ 609.267 — Assault of Unborn Child in the First Degree

Plain-Language Summary

First-degree assault of an unborn child means assaulting a pregnant woman and causing great bodily harm to the unborn child, who is later born alive. The penalty is up to 15 years in prison, a fine up to $30,000, or both.

Practical Notes
This charge requires that the unborn child suffer great bodily harm and be born alive. It is aimed at third parties who assault pregnant women, not the pregnant women themselves. Great bodily harm means serious injuries that create a risk of death or cause permanent damage.