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Assault in the Second Degree

RCW: 9A.36.021

Elements of the Crime & PC Checklist
Essential facts to establish probable cause.

Required Elements

  • The defendant intentionally assaulted another and thereby recklessly inflicted substantial bodily harm; OR
  • Assaulted another with a deadly weapon; OR
  • Assaulted another by strangulation or suffocation; OR
  • Knowingly inflicted bodily harm which extends the duration of the pain greatly.

Probable Cause Checklist

  • Intentional assault.
  • Reckless infliction of substantial bodily harm (e.g., broken bone, temporary disfigurement).
  • Use of a deadly weapon.
  • Evidence of strangulation or suffocation (e.g., neck marks, victim statement of breathing being impeded).
  • Victim and witness statements.