Question

In passing, I told you that our boss will be on vacation for a week and he asked me to check on the house. He even gave me a key to keep. You know I placed it under my desk blotter. He is a terrible boss, but I do what I’m told. You take the key and burglarize the house when he is on vacation. I notice that the key was moved and put inside my desk drawer. I know the key was moved and probably used by you since no one else knew where it was and you hate the boss, but I returned it to the rightful place without alerting anyone. I take it and place it back under my blotter. Upon his arrival back to work, the police begin a criminal investigation. I did not commit the burglary and I hope I am not liable for criminal charges.

Think about the scenario that has been presented. Is the employee who was asked to be the house caretaker in the absence of the boss liable and if so, what charges could the employee face?

Answer 1

The liability of the house caretaker for criminal charges depends on involvement and evidence. Knowledge alone doesn't constitute a crime, but legal advice is critical to understand liabilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Whether the employee who was asked to be the house caretaker in the absence of the boss is liable for criminal charges depends on various factors, such as knowledge of the crime, participation, and evidence available. Legally, mere knowledge of the burglary without direct involvement might not constitute a criminal offense.

However, if there is evidence suggesting complicity or negligence, the caretaker could potentially face charges such as accessory after the fact or criminal negligence for failing to report the crime or taking steps to prevent it.

It is critical for the employee to seek the advice of a legal professional to understand the extent of their liabilities. In the provided scenario, discussing the situation with the police and cooperating with the investigation could be instrumental in establishing innocence.