Brackins v. State

GILBERT, Chief Judge.

The overriding question presented by this appeal is what is meant by the use of the word “exploitation” within the ambit of the child abuse statute, Md.Ann.Code art. 27, § 35A(a)(4)(i).

The facts of this case are simple. Robert Paul Brackins is married to the mother of the then twelve-year-old victim. On the date of the alleged offense, Brackins was at home with the child. The mother was at work. Mrs. Brackins testified that Mr. Brackins lived at the same residence as the victim, and that Mr. Brackins was responsible for the care of the victim while she worked. Mrs.…