State of Arizona v. Armando Pena, Jr.

Justice BRUTINEL,

opinion of the Court.

¶ 1 An assault is aggravated under AR.S. § 13-1204(A)(3) if it is committed “by any means of force that causes temporary but substantial disfigurement ... of any body part.” Interpreting the phrase “temporary but substantial disfigurement” for the first time, we hold that substantial evidence supports the jury’s determination that Armando Pena, Jr. committed aggravated assault based on the injuries he inflicted to the victim’s hand and abdomen.

I. BACKGROUND

¶2 Pena repeatedly assaulted the victim with a knife or other sharp object, injuring her hand, leg,…