Reckless Endangerment Charges in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania

Reckless endangerment is one of the most misunderstood criminal charges in Pennsylvania. Although the statute is broadly written, a conviction can carry serious penalties, including jail time and a permanent criminal record. In Luzerne County—whether the charge arises in Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Kingston, or surrounding communities—reckless endangerment is often filed alongside other criminal offenses, increasing the stakes for anyone accused.

Understanding how Pennsylvania defines reckless endangerment and what defenses may apply is critical if you or a loved one is facing these charges.

What Is Reckless Endangerment Under Pennsylvania Law?

Reckless endangerment is defined under 18 Pa.C.S. § 2705, which states that a person commits this offense when they recklessly engage in conduct that places another person in danger of death or serious bodily injury. This charge is commonly referred to as REAP (Recklessly Endangering Another Person).

Importantly, the law does not require that anyone actually be injured. Prosecutors in Luzerne County only need to allege that the accused person's conduct created a substantial risk of serious harm.

Common Examples of Reckless Endangerment in Luzerne County

REAP charges can arise in a wide range of situations, including:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Serious traffic violations or aggressive driving

• Pointing a firearm or weapon at another person

• Leaving a child unattended in a dangerous environment

• Allowing children access to dangerous objects or chemicals

• Disregarding safety rules on construction or work sites

• Failing to disclose a known sexually transmitted disease

• Unsafe handling or discharge of a weapon

In many Luzerne County cases, reckless endangerment is added as a secondary charge, even when prosecutors already filed DUI, assault, or weapons offenses.

Penalties for Reckless Endangerment in Pennsylvania

Reckless endangerment is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. A conviction may result in:

• Up to two years in jail

• Fines of up to $5,000

• A permanent criminal record

Judges in Luzerne County consider both the Offense Gravity Score (OGS) and the defendant's Prior Record Score (PRS) when determining sentencing.

Beyond criminal penalties, a REAP conviction can affect employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licenses, college admissions, and scholarships.

Defenses to Reckless Endangerment Charges

Because the statute requires reckless conduct, one of the most effective defenses is showing that the accused acted negligently—or not dangerously at all.

Common defenses to reckless endangerment charges include:

• The conduct was negligent, not reckless

• No one was actually placed in danger

• Lack of sufficient evidence

• Mistaken identity

• The actions were accidental

• The conduct was justified or done in self-defense

An experienced Luzerne County criminal defense attorney can challenge whether the prosecution has met its burden and whether the alleged conduct truly rose to the level required under Pennsylvania law.

Charged With Reckless Endangerment in Luzerne County?

If you are facing reckless endangerment or related criminal charges in Luzerne County, it is essential to speak with a defense attorney as early as possible. These cases often hinge on subtle factual and legal distinctions that can make the difference between a dismissal, reduced charges, or a conviction.

At Sklarosky Law, we explain to our clients how the criminal charges they face can affect their freedom, your record, and future.

Call (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation today.