As discussed in a prior post, simple assault in Mississippi can be punished by up to 6 months in jail and a fine up to $500.00, or both.  However, there are certain aggravating factors which can substantially increase the consequences of actions which would otherwise be considered misdemeanor simple assault.  No surprisingly, the actions which constitute simple assault, when committed against a pregnant woman leads to significantly greater penalties.

Intentional simple assault against a pregnant woman will be penalized as follows:

  1. If the conduct results in a miscarriage or stillbirth by that individual, a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than twenty (20) years or a fine of not more than Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($ 7,500.00), or both.
  2. If the conduct results in serious physical injury to the embryo or fetus, a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than twenty (20) years or a fine of not more than Five Thousand Dollars ($ 5,000.00), or both.
  3. If the conduct results in minor physical injury to the embryo or fetus, a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or a fine of not more than One Thousand Dollars ($ 1,000.00), or both.