Types of Crimes

Types of Crimes

Most crimes are specific-intent crimes; the actor must have some type of mens rea to be found guilty of the crime. However, there are crimes that are general-intent, or strict-liability, crimes, meaning the actor does not need to have any specific intent, or mens rea, to have committed the crime; the act alone is enough

• What are the types of mens rea that can satisfy the element of a crime? Describe the types.
• Why are nonintentional acts enough to establish a criminal mind, in some cases?
• What types of crimes are considered strict-liability crimes?
• How do these crimes compare to standard inchoate crimes, where the actus reus is missing?
• Should crimes that have no victims be considered criminal acts?

Note: Refer to your Week 1 textbook readings to learn more about strict-liability crimes.