PC 832 - PC 832 Arrest and Firearms Course Criminal Law and Liability Questions and Answers

Question 1

Before a person can be convicted of a crime, the prosecution must first establish the "corpus delicti." What does this legal principle require the prosecution to prove?

Accepted Answer

That a specific injury or harm occurred as a result of a criminal act.

Answer

The suspect's motive for committing the crime.

Answer

The suspect was present at the scene of the crime.

Answer

The suspect had the physical ability to commit the crime.

Question 2

A man knowingly helps his friend hide from the police after the friend has committed a felony robbery. Under the California Penal Code, what is the man's criminal liability?

Accepted Answer

Accessory

Answer

Principal

Answer

Accomplice

Answer

Co-conspirator

Question 3

Which of the following best describes "specific intent" as an element of a crime?

Accepted Answer

The intent to commit a prohibited act with the purpose of achieving a specific additional consequence.

Answer

The intent to commit any unlawful act, regardless of the outcome.

Answer

An unintentional act that results in a criminal outcome.

Answer

The intent to commit a prohibited act, without a requirement of a further intended outcome.

Question 4

An on-duty officer, acting under their official authority, seizes and destroys a citizen's protest sign because the officer personally disagrees with its political message. This action deprives the citizen of their First Amendment rights. The officer could be subject to civil liability under which federal statute?

Accepted Answer

42 U.S.C. § 1983

Answer

California Penal Code § 835a

Answer

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act

Answer

The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act

Question 5

For a person to be found guilty of a criminal attempt under California law, they must take a direct but ineffectual step toward completing the crime and:

Accepted Answer

Have the specific intent to commit the target crime.

Answer

Actually complete a lesser-included offense.

Answer

Be in possession of all necessary tools to complete the crime.

Answer

Verbally announce their intention to commit the crime to a witness.

Question 6

An officer is investigating a report of a stolen bicycle. The officer finds a person with a bicycle that perfectly matches the description. The person provides a convincing, but ultimately false, receipt and genuinely believes they purchased the bicycle legally from a third party. If this person is charged with possession of stolen property (a specific intent crime requiring knowledge), which defense would be most applicable?

Accepted Answer

Mistake of fact

Answer

Insanity

Answer

Duress

Answer

Necessity