Oklahoma Jury Instruction — Mailing Threatening Communications refers to the set of legal guidelines provided to juries in Oklahoma when dealing with cases involving the act of sending threatening communications through the mail. These jury instructions outline the necessary elements and standards of proof required to establish guilt or innocence in such cases. Here is a detailed description of this jury instruction, including its purpose, elements, and potential variations: Purpose: The purpose of providing the Oklahoma Jury Instruction — Mailing Threatening Communications is to ensure that juries have a clear understanding of the law governing cases involving the act of mailing threatening communications. By providing these instructions, the court aims to guide the jury in their decision-making process and promote consistency in applying the law. Elements: The jury instruction typically outlines the essential elements that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to establish the defendant's guilt in a mailing threatening communications case. These elements commonly include: 1. Mailing: The instruction will specify that the prosecution must demonstrate that the defendant intentionally sent the threatening communication through the mail. This element requires proof of actual mailing or evidence indicating the defendant's involvement in the mailing process. 2. Threatening Communication: The instruction will define what constitutes a threatening communication. It may include language or content that explicitly threatens bodily harm, injury, or the use of force towards the recipient or another individual. The communication should convey a sense of imminent danger or fear. 3. Intent: The instruction will emphasize that the prosecution must prove the defendant's specific intent to cause harm or to instill fear with the mailing of the communication. It is not sufficient to demonstrate a reckless disregard for the recipient's safety. Variations: Though the Oklahoma Jury Instruction — Mailing Threatening Communications generally covers the core elements mentioned above, there may be specific variations pertaining to different scenarios or circumstances. Some variations may include: 1. Electronic Communications: In cases where the threatening communication was sent electronically (e.g., via email or social media), a separate jury instruction may be provided to address the distinctive nature of these forms of communication. 2. Federal Jurisdiction: If the case involves a federally regulated offense or circumstances that give rise to federal jurisdiction, the instruction may incorporate references to applicable federal laws. 3. Specific Intent Elements: Depending on the specific facts and circumstances of the case, the instruction may include additional elements related to the defendant's intent, such as establishing the recipient's reasonable apprehension of harm or proving an intent to extort or blackmail. In conclusion, the Oklahoma Jury Instruction — Mailing Threatening Communications assists juries in understanding the legal requirements for convicting an individual who has sent threatening communications through the mail. These instructions vary based on specific elements, potential variations, and factors unique to each case, ensuring the creation of a fair and comprehensive trial process.