Can you go to jail if you say the crime is your religion?

Question

I was watching The Simpsons a few days ago and I began to wonder about this.

Answer 1

no that is not an excuse.

Answer 2

Basically -- the rule is that there is no religious exemption activity that falls under some generally applicable law.

So, if the law is written in a manner that would affect everyone equally -- saying the action is required or allowed by your religion is no excuse.

However, there have been cases where the law was written (by the govt) for the sole purpose of targetting a particular religious group, and really affected nobody else. The courts have usually held that such laws are unconstitutional, where the intent or direct effect is to limit the practices of one particular religion.

So, short form -- general laws still apply, but religious practices cannot be targetted for new laws.

Answer 3

Yes you can, the law of the land can not be usurped by any religion. The courts would apply a very strict "litmus" test to that religion

Answer 4

Yes- if it breaks a law on the books. A loony defense lawyer may argue against this but hopefully juries will see thru this!

Answer 5

Religion does not give you the excuse to brake the law.

Sorry...but offering a human sacrifice to your god is still murder.

Answer 6

Yes. There have been cases on that. Specifically, exorcisms do not have religious freedom. If someone dies during an exorcism, they can be prosecuted for negligent homicide.

Answer 7

Yes. If your religion permits or requires you to harm other people (or their property), then that religion is not really a religion, but a terrorist organization.