In what situation does murder in the second degree apply?

Murder in the second degree generally involves an action that results in death but does not include premeditated intent to kill. The key aspect of this offense is that it typically involves a wanton disregard for human life or an act that is inherently dangerous to others.

In the case of causing death while committing cruelty to children in the second degree, this aligns with the definition of second-degree murder because it reflects a situation where an individual engages in criminal behavior that isn't directed solely at killing but still endangers life. Cruelty to children indicates some form of abusive or negligent behavior that can lead to fatal consequences, which fits the criteria for second-degree murder. The act, while not intended to kill, demonstrates a reckless disregard for the safety of a vulnerable individual, resulting in death.

The other scenarios involve circumstances that either indicate a different intent or a separate classification of homicide that does not squarely fit into the definition of second-degree murder. For instance, inadvertently causing death during a robbery often relates more closely to felony murder or manslaughter, while killing in retaliation involves intent and is more likely categorized as first-degree murder due to the personal motive. Lastly, the option suggesting death occurs without intent may relate more to manslaughter rather than second-degree murder