What type of murder occurs when a death results from cruelty to children in the second degree?

Second-degree murder is characterized by a generally impulsive act that reflects a disregard for human life but does not meet the criteria for premeditated intent, which is essential for first-degree murder. In cases involving cruelty to children, if the death results from extreme indifference to human life or from an act that shows a depraved heart without the intent to kill, it typically falls under the category of second-degree murder.

This is particularly relevant in the context of child cruelty, where the actions leading to a child’s death are considered reckless or malicious but lack the forethought associated with planning. The nature of the act demonstrates a profound neglect or abuse that leads directly to the child's death, thereby fitting the definition of second-degree murder.

Both involuntary manslaughter and voluntary manslaughter involve different mental states surrounding the act of killing. Involuntary manslaughter implies a lack of intent or recklessness, while voluntary manslaughter usually suggests an intentional act provoked by circumstances that could cause an ordinary person to lose self-control. First-degree murder requires a clear intent to kill, underscored by premeditation, which is not present in cases of cruelty resulting in death that qualify for second-degree murder.