Opinion ID: 1366816
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Webb's arson conviction for the Newton firebombing.

Text: Conversely, this same conclusion does not apply with respect to Webb's convictions for the Newton fire. After analysis under Moore, we conclude that Webb was entitled to the lesser related instruction. Webb's trial defense to the Newton firebombing was consistent with explosive destruction. He took the stand and admitted committing a culpable act by throwing the molotov cocktail at Newton's home. Webb then claimed that due to his voluntary intoxication, he could not have formed the requisite specific intent necessary to commit arson. This was a viable defense to a specific intent crime, and the jury was instructed accordingly. If believed, the only crime Webb could have committed was explosive destruction, a general intent offense. [4] See Geiger, 199 Cal.Rptr. at 47, 674 P.2d at 1304 (lacking specific intent to commit robbery was consistent with lesser related general intent offense of vandalism, thus requiring vandalism instruction). Moreover, the trial evidence reasonably supported Webb's guilt for the lesser related crime. There was testimony that Webb had been drinking and smoking cocaine and marijuana for several hours prior to the firebombing. Expert testimony also characterized Webb as a chronic alcoholic who may have been suffering from an intoxication blackout. For the reasons noted above, we conclude that Webb was entitled to the lesser related instruction. Rejecting such an instruction was an abuse of the trial court's discretion, warranting the reversal of Webb's arson conviction for the Newton firebombing.