Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Assembly approves eliminating involuntary intoxication defense

By: Dan Shaw, [email protected]//March 18, 2014//

Assembly approves eliminating involuntary intoxication defense

By: Dan Shaw, [email protected]//March 18, 2014//

Listen to this article

The state Assembly passed a bill Tuesday that would remove voluntary intoxication as a possible defense in criminal cases.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Stephen Nass, R-Whitewater, would not affect any laws that allow for involuntary intoxication or being drugged to be used as a defense. Rather, the bill only would apply to those who knowingly and willingly ingested drugs or alcohol. Defendants would not be able to cite their willing substance abuse to argue they did not have the necessary intent to commit a crime.

Randy Kraft, the State Public Defender’s spokesman, said in an email attributed to him that the agency did not take a position on the bill.

Polls

Should Steven Avery be granted a new evidentiary hearing?

View Results

Loading ... Loading ...

Legal News

See All Legal News

WLJ People

Sea all WLJ People

Opinion Digests