Menacing
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Plain-English Meaning
Intentionally placing another person in reasonable fear of physical injury or death through threatening conduct or displaying a weapon. Menacing is commonly charged when someone threatens another with a weapon or makes serious physical threats.
Legal Context
N.Y. Penal Law §§ 120.13–120.15 define Menacing in three degrees. Menacing in the Third Degree (§ 120.15, B misdemeanor) is intentionally placing a person in fear by physical menace. Menacing in the Second Degree (§ 120.14, A misdemeanor) involves displaying a weapon or repeatedly following. Menacing in the First Degree (§ 120.13, E felony) is second degree menacing after a prior menacing conviction.
Real-Life Example
During an argument, Ray picked up a baseball bat and raised it toward his neighbor while threatening to 'finish him.' He was charged with Menacing in the Second Degree for placing the neighbor in reasonable fear of injury by displaying what could be used as a dangerous instrument.
Related Statutes
Related Terms
Source
Based on N.Y. Penal Law §§ 120.13–120.15. Original B-Legal plain-language explanation.
N.Y. Penal Law §§ 120.13–120.15
Definitions are simplified for education. Legal meanings vary by jurisdiction, context, and case facts. This definition is original B-Legal content and is not affiliated with or derived from any proprietary legal dictionary.