Opinion ID: 1668434
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 10

Heading: specific intent instructions

Text: Latham notes that under SDCL 22-18-1.1(2), a person is guilty of aggravated assault if he attempts to cause or knowingly causes bodily injury to another with a dangerous weapon. Latham requested a jury instruction explaining the difference between specific intent and general intent. The trial court held that SDCL 22-18-1.1(2) contains no intent requirement and refused both requested instructions. In State v. Barrientos, 444 N.W.2d 374 (S.D.1989), we held that aggravated assault under SDCL 22-18-1.1(2) is a general intent crime. Based on Barrientos, the trial court was correct in holding that Latham was not entitled to any instructions distinguishing specific and general intent.