Article 121: Strangulation and related offenses

In New York law, Article 121 refers to strangulation or a related offense including criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation. If you have been charged with such an offense, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.

The complete law is as follows:

Article 121: Strangulation and related offenses

121.11 Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation.
121.12 Strangulation in the second degree.
121.13 Strangulation in the first degree.
121.14 Medical or dental purpose.

NY Penal Law 121.11

Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation.

A person is guilty of criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation when, with intent to impede the normal breathing or circulation of the blood of another person, he or she: a. applies pressure on the throat or neck of such person; or b. blocks the nose or mouth of such person.

Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation is a class A misdemeanor.