What is entrapment in criminal defense law?

Entrapment is a defense to criminal charges that arises when someone is induced by a law enforcement officer to commit a crime that he would not have otherwise committed. In Texas, entrapment is a complete defense to criminal charges. It requires that the defendant prove that an agent of law enforcement (such as a police officer) induced him to commit a criminal act. For entrapment to be successful as a defense, the defendant must prove that the law enforcement officer induced him to commit the crime by either using fraud, force, threats, or coercion. Furthermore, the defendant must prove that he had no prior predisposition to commit the crime. In other words, the defendant must demonstrate that he was not already inclined to commit the crime before the law enforcement officer induced him to do so. Entrapment is an effective defense to criminal charges because it sets limits on the power of law enforcement officers to arrest and prosecute individuals. If found guilty, a defendant may be relieved from criminal responsibility and any sentence imposed. In Texas, entrapment is a valid defense which an accused person can use to avoid criminal liability.

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What is entrapment in criminal defense law?

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