State v. Mikels

CAMERON, Chief Justice.

We granted the defendant’s petition for review of a decision of the Court of Appeals affirming the defendant’s conviction and sentence for obstructing justice in violation of A.R.S. § 13-541(A).

We take jurisdiction pursuant to Rule 31.19, Rules of Criminal Procedure, 17 A.R.S.

Two issues are presented for determination:

1. Is obstructing justice a crime .of specific intent?

2. Is self-defense a legitimate defense to the charge of obstructing justice?

Taking the evidence in a light most favorable to the State and resolving all conflicts in the evidence in favor of upholding…