Which items constitute the Second Degree Murder elements under the WKBC mnemonic?

Which items constitute the Second Degree Murder elements under the WKBC mnemonic?

• A. Wanton or reckless conduct
• B. Intent to kill
• C. Wanton or reckless conduct; Intent to kill; Intent to bring about substantial bodily harm; Intent to commit a felony
• D. Intent to kill; Intent to bring about substantial bodily harm

Answer: (C)

WKBC lists four ways to establish second-degree murder: wanton or reckless conduct; intent to kill; intent to bring about substantial bodily harm; and intent to commit a felony. Under this mnemonic, any one of these states of mind or actions can satisfy the necessary malice for second-degree murder. The best answer is the one that includes all four because it captures every pathway WKBC recognizes. The other options miss one or more of these pathways, making them incomplete.

WKBC lists four ways to establish second-degree murder: wanton or reckless conduct; intent to kill; intent to bring about substantial bodily harm; and intent to commit a felony. Under this mnemonic, any one of these states of mind or actions can satisfy the necessary malice for second-degree murder. The best answer is the one that includes all four because it captures every pathway WKBC recognizes. The other options miss one or more of these pathways, making them incomplete.