Which statement about absolute liability offenses is true?

• A. They require proof of mens rea for conviction.
• B. They impose liability without regard to mental state.
• C. They apply only to traffic offenses.
• D. They require intent to commit a wrong.

Answer: (B)

Absolute liability offenses are set up so that guilt depends on the act itself, not on the defendant’s mental state. The prosecution isn’t required to prove a particular mindset like intent, knowledge, or recklessness; simply performing the prohibited act is enough for conviction. That’s why the statement that these offenses impose liability without regard to mental state is true—the mental state does not matter for conviction.

The other ideas don’t fit this concept. Requiring mens rea or intent would describe ordinary criminal offenses, not absolute liability. And absolute liability isn’t limited to traffic offenses; it applies to a broad range of regulatory offenses where public safety or welfare is at stake.