Joseph Schlichting

Reckless endangerment is when someone acts recklessly in a way that puts another person in immediate danger of death or serious injury. This happens when a person is aware of a serious risk but ignores it anyway—for example, firing a gun into a crowd or driving dangerously fast through a populated area. A basic conviction is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500. The offense is enhanced to a Class E, D, or C felony (1-15 years in prison) if the reckless conduct involves using a deadly weapon or firearm.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500

Aggravated assault is assault committed with a deadly weapon (a firearm or anything designed to cause death or serious injury) or assault that causes serious bodily injury (substantial risk of death or permanent damage); this is a Class D felony (2 to 12 years in prison, up to $5,000 fine), but can be elevated to a Class C or B felony depending on aggravating circumstances like the severity of injury or use of weapons.

Penalty: Class D felony; 2-12 years; fine up to $5,000