When there is no apparent motive in a criminal case, does the absence of apparent motive make the case less persuasive?
California, United States of America
The following excerpt is from People v. Puthuff, C079631 (Cal. App. 2017):
"Although motive is not an element of any of defendant's crimes, 'the absence of apparent motive may make proof of the essential elements less persuasive . . . .' [Citation.]" (People v. Davis (2009) 46 Cal.4th 539, 604.)
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