Colorado Jury Instruction - Assaulting A Federal Officer - Without Use Of A Deadly Weapon

• Category: Federal - Jury Instructions - Offenses Instructions
• State: Multi-State
• Control #: US-11CRO-1-1
• Format: Word; Rich Text

Description

This form contains sample jury instructions, to be used across the United States. These questions are to be used only as a model, and should be altered to more perfectly fit your own cause of action needs.

Colorado Jury Instruction — Assaulting A Federal Office— - Without Use Of A Deadly Weapon is a pivotal legal guideline that outlines the elements and requirements for a defendant to be convicted of assault against a federal officer without using a deadly weapon. This instruction aims to ensure a fair and just trial while protecting the safety and well-being of federal law enforcement personnel. In Colorado, the offense of assaulting a federal officer without the use of a deadly weapon falls under the federal jurisdiction as per Title 18, Section 111 of the United States Code. This statute addresses the serious crime of assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer engaged in the performance of official duties. Key elements that must be established beyond a reasonable doubt in relation to this jury instruction are as follows: 1. "Assault" — The prosecutor must demonstrate that the defendant intentionally committed an act that reasonably caused another person to fear harm or experience physical contact, which the victim found offensive or provocative. The act must be committed against a federal officer. 2. "Federal Officer" — The instruction clarifies that a federal officer refers to an individual who serves the United States government in an official capacity, such as law enforcement agents, customs officers, immigration officers, federal agents, or federal law enforcement officers duly sworn to protect the nation's interests. 3. "Without Use Of A Deadly Weapon" — It is crucial to establish that the defendant did not employ a deadly weapon during the assault. A deadly weapon is an object that, in its intended or threatened use, is capable of causing serious bodily injury or death. The absence of a deadly weapon in the commission of the offense differentiates it from more severe charges like assault with a deadly weapon. Colorado may have different types or variations of jury instructions concerning assaulting a federal officer without using a deadly weapon, including but not limited to: 1. Assaulting A Federal Officer With Intent To Commit Another Felony — This instruction would address situations where the defendant not only assaulted a federal officer, but also had the specific intent to commit another felony offense simultaneously. 2. Aggravated Assault Against A Federal Officer — This type of instruction would apply when the assault against a federal officer without the use of a deadly weapon resulted in serious bodily injury, permanent disfigurement, or the substantial risk of death. 3. Simple Assault Against A Federal Officer — This instruction may be given when the assault against the federal officer is less severe or lacks aggravating factors, such as minor injuries, offensive touching, or any act that causes the officer to reasonably fear for their safety. 4. Assaulting A Federal Officer While Resisting Arrest or Detention — This instruction would be appropriate if the defendant assaulted the federal officer specifically while resisting lawful arrest or detention, implementing force to evade custody. It is essential for the jury to fully comprehend the Colorado jury instruction to make an informed and unbiased decision regarding the defendant's guilt or innocence. By following this instruction, the jury can carefully evaluate the evidence presented during the trial and determine whether the prosecution has proven each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. The instruction assists in maintaining law and order, upholding the duties of federal officers, and ensuring justice within the state of Colorado.