Money

Actus reus is present when Joseph spots Cassie by the waterfront and confronts her about the money she owes. After that, he pulls out a gun and shoots her in the head, killing her immediately and causing her to swing back and fall into the water. This is considered actus reus since he conducted a voluntary and criminal act. Men Rea was there when Joseph tracked Cassie down to confront her about the money, and understanding the implications, stepped up to her and shot her. This is deemed mens rea since Joseph purposefully approached Cassie and shot her in the head, knowing he was about to commit a murder. For committing a murder, homicide, or manslaughter, Joseph would be charged under the criminal code, R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 235, which states “Everyone who commits first-degree murder or second-degree murder is guilty of an indictable offence and shall be sentenced to imprisonment for life.” R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 222, which states “ A person commits homicide when, directly or indirectly, by any means, he causes the death of a human being.” R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 236, which states “Every person who commits manslaughter is guilty of an indictable offence and liable. (a) where a firearm is used in the commission of the offence, to imprisonment for life and to a minimum punishment of imprisonment for a term of four years”