Automatism and Drunkenness
Voluntary intoxication is not automatism. Involuntary intoxication can constitute automatism. This was the decision in R. v Hardie 1 WLR 164], although this decision may have been the result of judicial misunderstanding of the effects of diazepam. However, in Kingston 3 WLR 519] where a man with normally controlled paedophiliac urges succumbed to them after being drugged unknowingly for blackmail purposes; he was found still able to form the mens rea for indecent assault. This decision has been much criticised by jurists.
Read more about this topic: Automatism (case Law)
Famous quotes containing the word drunkenness:
“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap.”
—Bible: New Testament, Luke 21:34.35.