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.

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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.