Legal Definitions - depraved-heart murder

Definition: Depraved-heart murder is a type of murder that occurs when someone acts so recklessly and carelessly that it shows a complete disregard for human life. It is a murder resulting from an act that is extremely dangerous and shows a lack of concern for the safety of others.

Example: An example of depraved-heart murder would be if someone were to drive their car at high speeds through a crowded area, knowing that it could cause harm to others. If they were to hit and kill someone, it would be considered depraved-heart murder because their actions showed a complete disregard for human life.

Another example would be if someone were to fire a gun into a crowded area without any regard for who might be hit. If someone were to be killed as a result, it would be considered depraved-heart murder because the shooter acted recklessly and showed no concern for the safety of others.

These examples illustrate how depraved-heart murder is different from other types of murder because it is not necessarily premeditated or intentional. Instead, it is a result of someone acting in a way that is extremely dangerous and shows a complete disregard for human life.