What is entrapment in criminal defense law?

Entrapment is a defense commonly used in criminal defense law in Virginia and across the country. In legal terms, entrapment is when a law enforcement officer or government agent induces a person to commit a crime they would not normally commit. Entrapment is a valid defense when the person accused of a crime can prove that they were entrapped. For entrapment to be a viable defense, the accused must show that they were induced or persuaded by a law enforcement officer to commit the crime. This could be shown by showing that the officer threatened the suspect, offered a reward or inducement, or used excessively coercive tactics. Additionally, the accused must show that they were not predisposed to commit the crime. This means that the accused must be able to demonstrate that they only committed the crime because of the law enforcement officer’s influence. In criminal defense law in Virginia, it is important to evaluate all possible defenses and entrapment might be a viable option in some cases. Courts look very closely at entrapment claims because law enforcement agents are allowed to investigate criminal activity and must be allowed to do so. Although entrapment is a viable defense in some circumstances, it is important to understand that it is a difficult defense to prove.

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What is entrapment in criminal defense law?

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