The principle of coincidence
> For a offence to happen, both the actus reus and mens reus must occur at the same time. ie coincide.
Single transaction theory
> When the mens reus for the crime is formed before the actus reus has been completed
Single transaction theory case study
> R v Thabo Meli (1954)
- Rival gang kidnapped V with plan to kill, thought V was dead and threw him off a cliff. V was still alive and died due to exposure to the elements.
Becomes a continuous act from the mens reus to V’s death.
Continuing act case study
> Fagan v MPC (1969)
- D accidently ran over cops foot when being pulled over, left the car on his foot and ran.
Continuous act from driving onto foot and remaining there.
Continuing act
> When the mens reus for the crime has been formed after the actus reus has been completed.
