Depraved indifference

Depraved indifference is a state of mind (mens rea) of one showing no sense of moral concern for others, and acting wantonly, without regard for the lives of others, and unquestionably blameworthy.

In criminal law, a prosecutor usually tries to show depraved indifference when prosecuting someone for murder in the second degree. In this particular circumstance, the defendant has committed a wanton act that rises far above mere manslaughter in its implications, and how society ought to punish him.

Depraved indifference is not usually enough for a charge of murder in the first degree. To prove that, a prosecutor must show premeditation. Depraved indifference is simply not caring whether someone lives or dies. Premeditation means setting out ahead of time to cause a death.