Assume Adam purposefully fires a pistol at Baker.The bullet misses Baker but strikes and kills Charlie,an innocent bystander.At his trial for murdering Charlie,Adam argues that he is not guilty because he did not intend to shoot Charlie; he was trying to kill Baker.Which of the following is the most likely outcome of this situation?
A)Adam will be found not guilty of murdering Charlie because he lacked the necessary culpable mental state.
B)Adam will be found guilty of recklessly killing Charlie because he was aware that the shot might miss Baker.
C)Adam will be found guilty of murdering Charlie due to application of the doctrine of transferred intent.
D)Adam will be found not guilty of murdering Charlie but will be found guilty of attempting to murder Baker.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The doctrine of transferred intent applies when a person intends to commit a particular crime against one individual but instead commits the same crime against a different individual. In this case, even though Adam intended to shoot Baker, the doctrine of transferred intent would apply to hold him responsible for the murder of Charlie. Therefore, Adam would be found guilty of murdering Charlie due to the application of the doctrine of transferred intent.

Assume Adam Purposefully Fires a Pistol at Baker