ACCOMPLICE

It is a person who knowingly, voluntarily or intentionally and with mutual intent unites with the principal offender then assists or encourages the respective person to commit a crime or omits to perform a lawful act or legal duty to prevent the crime because of an accomplice, and not resembling which is typically present when the crime is committed. Thus,criminal liability of an accomplice is to an equal extent as same as the principal of a crime. However, without sharing the criminal intent, one who is merely present when a crime occurs and stands by silently is not an accomplice,no matter how objectionable his or her inaction. A person to become liable, an accomplice need not be physically present at the occurrence of crime, mere delivery of money, guns, or supplies for the pursuance of crime is enough for encouraging and aiding the commission of the crime.

ILLUSTRATION:

A wants to rob a jewelry store, B, who is an employee of the same store, turns off the alarm system, knowing that it will be robbed later that evening. B is becoming an accomplice and criminally liable for robbery like A after the commission of a crime.

CASE LAW:

ENMUND V. FLORIDA, U.S. 782, 102 S.CT

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