What is the penalty classification for driving while intoxicated with a child passenger under 15?

The penalty classification for driving while intoxicated with a child passenger under 15 is classified as a Third Degree Felony. This classification reflects the serious nature of the offense, especially considering the added risk posed to a vulnerable individual, such as a child.

In this context, the law recognizes that driving while intoxicated is inherently dangerous, and when a minor is involved, the potential for harm is significantly increased. Therefore, the legal system imposes a more severe penalty to deter individuals from engaging in such reckless behavior, aiming to protect the safety and well-being of children.

The classification of this offense as a Third Degree Felony, as opposed to lesser classifications such as a Class A Misdemeanor or State Jail Felony, underscores the gravity with which the law addresses the endangerment of minors in dangerous situations. In the case of driving while intoxicated, the consequences can be catastrophic, which justifies the harsher penalties associated with this specific circumstance.