Criminology: Elements of Crime Review

NAME:

Directions: Use your notes to answer the following questions in your own
words. Type directly into the box below each question. You may write only
the words as answers if applicable. (#1-9 are worth 2 points each, numbers 10
& 11 are worth 6 points each)
1. Give two examples (crimes) in which non-action may be considered criminal.

Stalking and threatening are two examples of non-action crimes.

2. Explain the four types of guilty mind (mens rea)?

Purpose-when harm is intended

Knowing-having the knowledge that harm can result
Recklessness-behaving that can increase risk of harm
Negligence-harm that occurred when a person acts irresponsibly

3. What is meant by a motive?

A person’s reason for committing the crime.

4. What is strict liability?

You have to prove that there was no culpable state of mind in order to be
convicted. Causing harm alone is enough to get you convicted.

5. What are the two components of concurrence that make up a crime?

An unlawful act and guilty state of mind need to occur in order for a crime to
take place.

 6. Explain causation.

The concurrence of a guilty mind and a criminal act might cause harm.

7. Who are the two parties to which harm may occur in order for an action to be
a crime?

8. What is an ex post facto law?

Laws that are passed after the commission

9. What is a necessary legal component of a law if found guilty?

The punishment for committing the crime must be specified at the time of
implementation.

Directions: Examine the scenarios below and explain if any elements are
missing, negating prosecution. Remember, #10 & 11 are worth 6 points
each. Provide three reasons (2 pts each) to support your ideas.
10. Bob was arrested for stalking Suzie. It was Suzie’s boyfriend Dan, who is a
police officer, who reported the incident. Bob insisted that all he wanted to do
was ask Suzie for a date. Suzie says she never felt threatened or afraid, but
instead was flattered. Are the elements of a crime present so that Bob should
be charged with stalking? Why or why not?

Yes he is. While he did actually cause any harm to Suzie, Bob could have
caused fear or harm.

11. Rhonda was walking down the street when someone snatched her purse.
While chasing the thief, she ran into the street and was hit by a car. Are the
elements of a crime present so that the purse snatcher should be charged
with Rhonda’s injury? Why or why not?

No the thief should not be charged for Rhonda’s injury. Both parties should be
charged separately.