During a criminal trial for burglary, the prosecution seeks to introduce evidence of the defendant’s prior theft convictions to demonstrate a tendency to commit theft. Which of the following statements best describes the admissibility of this evidence?
It is inadmissible under the rules of character evidence, except in certain situations.
It is inadmissible to show propensity but can be allowed to prove intent or motive under specific circumstances.
It is admissible to demonstrate the defendant’s propensity to commit theft under certain conditions.
It is admissible if the defendant introduces similar evidence about the prosecution witnesses under the rules of character evidence.
The correct answer explains that character evidence cannot be used to show a propensity to commit the crime but can be used to establish intent or motive in specific circumstances. Other options incorrectly suggest that propensity evidence is admissible or misstate the rules regarding character evidence.
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What is character evidence in a legal context?
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What are the exceptions to the rule against using character evidence?
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What is the significance of intent and motive in criminal law?