FACTS
In Reg v Cruise (1838), a police constable attempted to arrest A at his house. During the arrest, B, C, and D emerged from the house and physically assaulted the constable.
ISSUE
Whether the accomplices present at the scene (B, C, and D) could be held jointly liable for aiding and supporting the assault on the constable.
LAW INVOLVED
The case involves the principle of joint liability, where all participants present during a criminal act can be held accountable for providing encouragement, support, or protection to the main offender.
JUDGMENT
The court established the principle of joint liability, holding that the presence of B, C, and D at the scene provided encouragement, support, and protection to A. Thus, they were all held liable for the assault on the constable, regardless of whether they directly committed the act.
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