Mississippi Criminal Law BlogPeople have been poisoning each other since before the Roman Empire. It is one of the most common ways for people to attempt murder, and high-ranking politicians and world leaders are wary of these attacks even in the modern era. Poison may be preferable to more overt attempts at murder because of its subversive nature. Those who poison their targets may think that they stand a better chance of getting away with their crime, since it may be more difficult to trace the act back to the perpetrator. But what happens if you try to poison someone in the state of Mississippi? Are there really laws against this crime?
If you have been charged with poisoning in the state of Mississippi, it is important to consult with a qualified, experienced attorney as soon as possible. With the right legal assistance, you can defend yourself in an effective manner. Poisoning is a serious crime in the state of Mississippi, and you could face significant jail sentences and fines. It is important to understand what you are up against if you have been accused of this crime.
Poisoning With Intent to Kill or Injure
Mississippi law clearly states that it is illegal to “mingle any poison” with food, drink, or medicine with the intent to kill or injure another human being. You are also not allowed to poison any well, spring, or reservoir of water. Both of these acts fall under the same general law, and they come with the same penalty. If convicted, you face a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a maximum fine of $1,000. It is worth pointing out that you do not actually need to kill or injure anyone to be found guilty of this crime. Merely showing that you “intended” to kill or injure another human is enough to convict you.
It is Also Illegal to Poison Animals
A high-profile case in 2018 brought attention to the concept of animal poisoning in Mississippi. A woman’s dog was poisoned and killed, leading her to take legal action against the person responsible. In Mississippi, it is strictly forbidden to poison most domestic animals, and this crime comes with a maximum prison sentence of three years and a maximum fine of $500.
Lead Poisoning is a Serious Problem in Mississippi
Mississippi is no stranger to poison-related issues, and there are growing concerns about lead poisoning in the Magnolia State. Various news sources examined the threat of lead poisoning faced by children in the state. There is also evidence to suggest that lead poisoning is affecting the strength of the local bald eagle population.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been searching the Mississippi area for a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. Thanks to a wealth of experience with all kinds of different criminal cases in Mississippi, Vic Carmody Jr. can help those who have been accused of virtually any crime. If you want to fight for your rights and avoid unnecessary legal consequences, hiring the right criminal defense attorney is crucial. Make the right choice, and book your consultation today.