Give an example of an absolute liability offense.

• A. Homicide
• B. Traffic offenses, such as speeding
• C. Embezzlement
• D. Arson

Answer: (B)

Absolute liability offenses convict based solely on the prohibited act, without needing to prove any mental state like intent or knowledge. These offenses are common in areas that affect public safety, where proving the offender’s mindset would be difficult or impractical; the focus is on preventing the risk itself.

In the given options, speeding fits this idea. Driving over the speed limit is enough for liability, regardless of whether you intended to break the law or even realized you were speeding. The law treats the act itself as a wrong to public safety, so no mens rea is required.

The other choices involve a mens rea component. Homicide typically requires malice or intent to kill, arson involves intent to burn or at least reckless disregard, and embezzlement requires intent to defraud. These require some mental state and thus are not absolute liability offenses.