Colorado Jury Instruction — Assaulting A Federal Office— - With Use Of A Deadly Weapon or Inflicting Bodily Injury is a legal guideline provided to juries in Colorado to determine the appropriate verdict in cases involving assaults committed on federal officers, where a deadly weapon is used or bodily injury is inflicted. This instruction serves as a framework for understanding the specific elements that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in order to convict a defendant of this offense. Assaulting a federal officer is a serious offense that carries severe penalties under federal law. When the assault involves the use of a deadly weapon or results in bodily injury, the gravity of the offense increases exponentially. The jury instruction aims to ensure that jurors comprehend the legal requirements and standards necessary to make a fair and informed decision. Key elements of the Colorado Jury Instruction for Assaulting A Federal Officer: 1. Identification of the federal officer: The instruction outlines that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the assaulted individual is a federal officer who was engaged in official duties at the time of the assault. 2. Assault: The jury must determine whether the accused committed an intentional act that reasonably caused the apprehension of immediate physical harm or injury to the federal officer. 3. Use of a deadly weapon: The instruction provides a definition of what constitutes a deadly weapon under Colorado law, emphasizing that the presence or use of a dangerous instrument capable of causing death or serious bodily injury must be demonstrated. 4. Bodily injury: In cases where bodily injury is inflicted on the federal officer, the instruction explains that it refers to any physical pain, impairment, or damage that a reasonable person would find significant. Subtypes of the Colorado Jury Instruction — Assaulting A Federal Office— - With Use Of A Deadly Weapon or Inflicting Bodily Injury may arise based on the specific circumstances of the case: — Use of a firearm or explosive: If the accused employed a firearm or explosive as the deadly weapon, the instruction may include additional elements regarding the specificities of such weapons and the necessary intent. — Aggravated assault: When the assault involves circumstances elevating the seriousness of the offense, such as the use of a dangerous weapon or committing the act with the intent of causing serious bodily harm, the instruction may outline the heightened elements and their implications. It is crucial for jurors to carefully analyze the evidence presented during the trial, weigh witness testimonies, and evaluate the credibility of each side's arguments before reaching a verdict. By following the Colorado Jury Instruction — Assaulting A Federal Office— - With Use Of A Deadly Weapon or Inflicting Bodily Injury, jurors can ensure a fair, unbiased, and informed decision in cases involving this offense.