Iowa criminal charge
Wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult in Iowa
Wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult is a criminal offense under Iowa law, defined by Iowa Code § 726.28. Its classification is not fixed: Iowa assigns a different penalty class depending on the circumstances of the offense. The class that applies — and the sentencing range that follows from it — depends on which statutory variant fits the facts.
Defined by Iowa Code § 726.28.
What is the penalty for wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult in Iowa?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 1 years (Wanton neglect of a dependent adult — A caretaker knowingly acts in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or emotional welfare of a dependent adult.; the court may order imprisonment in addition to the fine (§903.1(1)(b))) | discretionary | Iowa Code § 903.1 |
| Fine | $430 to $2,560 (Wanton neglect of a dependent adult — A caretaker knowingly acts in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or emotional welfare of a dependent adult.; fine may not be suspended by the court (§903.1(1)); §911 surcharges added on top) | mandatory | Iowa Code § 903.1 |
| Jail / prison | up to 5 years (Nonsupport of a dependent adult — A person with legal responsibility through contract or court order for support of a dependent adult fails or refuses to provide support.; indeterminate term (§902.3); maximum only, release determined by the board of parole) | discretionary | Iowa Code § 902.9 |
| Fine | $1,025 to $10,245 (Nonsupport of a dependent adult — A person with legal responsibility through contract or court order for support of a dependent adult fails or refuses to provide support.; §911 surcharges added on top) | mandatory | Iowa Code § 902.9 |
Applies to current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074).
How is wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult classified in Iowa?
The classification depends on the circumstances:
| Variant | Classification | When it applies | Statute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wanton neglect of a dependent adult | Serious Misdemeanor | A caretaker knowingly acts in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or emotional welfare of a dependent adult. | Iowa Code § 726.28(1) |
| Nonsupport of a dependent adult | Class “D” Felony | A person with legal responsibility through contract or court order for support of a dependent adult fails or refuses to provide support. | Iowa Code § 726.28(2) |
Common questions about wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult in Iowa
Is wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult a felony or a misdemeanor in Iowa?
It depends on the circumstances: wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult ranges from a Serious Misdemeanor to a Class “D” Felony in Iowa under Iowa Code § 726.28.
Wanton neglect of a dependent adult: Serious Misdemeanor (Iowa Code § 726.28(1)) · Nonsupport of a dependent adult: Class “D” Felony (Iowa Code § 726.28(2))
What are the penalties for wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult in Iowa?
Which Iowa statute covers wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult?
Wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult is governed by Iowa Code § 726.28 (Wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.