Indiana Jury Instruction — Possession Of Firearm By A Convicted Felon refers to a set of legal guidelines provided to the jury in Indiana when evaluating a case involving an individual who has been convicted of a felony and is now allegedly in possession of a firearm. These instructions aim to assist the jury in understanding the specific elements that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in order to convict the defendant. The possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is considered a serious offense in Indiana due to the potential risks it presents to public safety. To ensure a fair trial and accurate judgment, the jury instructions provide a clear framework for assessing the evidence and applying the relevant laws. The following are the key elements that must be established by the prosecution in order to secure a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Indiana: 1. Previous Felony Conviction: The prosecution must demonstrate that the defendant has previously been convicted of a felony offense, which disqualifies them from legally possessing a firearm. 2. Knowing and Intentional Possession: The prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed the firearm. This means the defendant was aware of the firearm's presence and exercised control over it. 3. Actual Possession or Constructive Possession: The prosecution may present evidence of either actual possession, where the firearm was physically found on the defendant's person, or constructive possession, where the firearm was within the defendant's control (e.g., found in their residence or vehicle). 4. Firearm Classification: The specific type of firearm possessed by the defendant may impact the severity of the offense and potential penalties. Different types can include handguns, rifles, shotguns, or other restricted firearms. 5. Possession Qualifications: Depending on the specific circumstances and the defendant's criminal history, there may be additional legal considerations regarding possession, such as whether the defendant had a valid firearm permit or exemption. It is important to note that while this description provides a general overview of Indiana Jury Instruction — Possession Of Firearm By A Convicted Felon, there may be multiple versions or variations of these instructions depending on the specific case circumstances, applicable statutes, and judicial interpretations. Therefore, it is crucial for the jury to consider the instructions provided by the presiding judge and carefully evaluate the evidence presented during the trial.