Being in the right state at the right time likely saved Ronald MacKinnon prison time when he made the decision to not seek immediate medical care for his wife.

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MacKinnon’s case is an example of how a person’s split-second decision can permanently alter the trajectory of their future. Had MacKinnon been prosecuted in Cheshire County, where he’s from, he would almost undoubtedly have been given a traditional charge, such as misdemeanor reckless conduct, said County Attorney Chris MacLaughlin. A person convicted of misdemeanor reckless conduct in New Hampshire would face up to a year in county jail.