Legal Definitions - Principal in the second degree

Principal in the second degree

A person who is present at the scene of a crime and helps, encourages, or supports the commission of the crime with the necessary criminal intent.

1. John and Bob plan to rob a bank. Bob goes into the bank with a gun and demands money while John waits outside in the getaway car. Even though John did not enter the bank, he is still considered a principal in the second degree because he aided and abetted the crime.

2. Sarah and her friend plan to shoplift from a store. Sarah distracts the store clerk while her friend steals items. Even though Sarah did not physically steal anything, she is still considered a principal in the second degree because she encouraged and supported the crime.

These examples illustrate how a person can be considered a principal in the second degree even if they did not physically commit the crime. As long as they were present at the scene and helped or encouraged the crime with the necessary criminal intent, they can be held responsible for the crime.