Define: Instrumental Crime

An instrumental crime refers to a criminal act committed with the intention of achieving a specific goal or objective, such as financial gain or personal revenge.

Examples of instrumental crimes include theft, fraud, embezzlement, blackmail, and cybercrime.

While instrumental crimes are premeditated and committed for a specific purpose, crimes of passion are impulsive acts driven by intense emotions, such as anger or jealousy.

The penalties for instrumental crimes vary depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the offense. They can range from fines and probation to imprisonment, restitution, or a combination of these.

Yes, individuals who aid, abet, or conspire with others to commit an instrumental crime can be held legally responsible, even if they did not directly participate in the act itself.

The burden of proof in instrumental crime cases lies with the prosecution, who must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed the crime with the required intent or purpose.

In some cases, individuals may argue that they committed an instrumental crime out of necessity or self-defence. Whether such justifications are accepted depends on the specific circumstances and the applicable laws.

Expungement eligibility varies by jurisdiction, but in general, instrumental crimes are less likely to be eligible for expungement due to their intentional nature and potential harm caused.

Yes, instrumental crimes can be prosecuted as federal offenses if they involve violations of federal laws, such as identity theft, money laundering, or interstate fraud.

Yes, corporations and organisations can be held criminally liable for instrumental crimes if their actions or policies contribute to the commission of the offense. This is often referred to as corporate or organisational criminal liability.