Wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult.

1. A caretaker commits wanton neglect of a dependent adult if the caretaker knowingly acts in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or emotional welfare of a dependent adult. Wanton neglect of a dependent adult is a serious misdemeanor. 2. A person who has legal responsibility either through contract or court order for support of a dependent adult and who fails or refuses to provide support commits nonsupport. Nonsupport is a class “D” felony. 3. A person alleged to have committed wanton neglect or nonsupport of a dependent adult shall be charged with the respective offense unless a charge may be brought based upon a more serious offense, in which case the charge of the more serious offense shall supersede the less serious charge. 4. For the purposes of this section , “dependent adult” means a dependent adult as defined in section 235B.2, subsection 4 , and “caretaker” means a caretaker as defined in section 235B.2, subsection 1 . 87 Acts, ch 182, §10 CS87, §726.8 2022 Acts, ch 1132, §8 C2023, §726.28 Referred to in §135B.34 , 135C.33 , 152.5A