When it’s a strangulation. Yes, as of 2008, the Connecticut legislature has created the crime of “Strangulation” (I’d link to it, but it isn’t up on the website yet).
Is it redundant? What does it really mean? Let’s find out! The first step, of course, is to conduct an elements analysis. There are two degrees of strangulation, both felonies. Let’s start with Strangulation in the First Degree:
(a) A person is guilty of strangulation in the first degree when such person commits strangulation in the second degree as provided in section 53a-64bb and (1) in the commission of such offense, such person (A) uses or attempts to use a dangerous instrument, or (B) causes serious physical injury to such other person, or (2) such person has previously been convicted of a violation of this section or section 53a-64bb.
Huh? Okay, let’s look at Strangulation in the Second Degree (53a-64bb):
(a) A person is guilty of strangulation in the second degree when such person restrains another person by the neck or throat with the intent to impede the ability of such other person to breathe or restrict blood circulation of such other person and such person impedes the ability of such other person to breathe or restricts blood circulation of such other person.
Here’s what I don’t understand. How do you commit strangulation in the second degree without using a “dangerous instrument”? Especially in light of the fact that hands (or fists or feet or limbs) may be “dangerous instruments”: Continue reading
