Abuse of an elderly adult, knowingly failing to report, commits which misdemeanor?

• A. Class A Misdemeanor
• B. Class B Misdemeanor
• C. Felony
• D. Infraction

Answer: (A)

Knowingly failing to report abuse of an elderly or vulnerable adult is a crime in Tennessee. The statute specifically makes the act of not reporting known abuse a Class A misdemeanor, which is the most serious level of misdemeanor. The key element is knowingly failing to report; once you’re aware of the abuse and you don’t report it, you’re subject to this offense. Penalties for a Class A misdemeanor can be up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500. This is distinct from the act of abuse itself, which could carry other penalties in different circumstances, but the failure-to-report offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.