Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of an exculpatory statement?

1. "I had an alibi elsewhere."

2. "He forced me to act."

3. "I was confused at the time."

4. "I forgot what happened."

The correct answer is: "I had an alibi elsewhere."

An exculpatory statement refers to a declaration that clears someone from blame or guilt, indicating that they did not commit the crime in question. In this case, the statement "I had an alibi elsewhere" serves as an example of this concept because it provides information that can corroborate the individual's innocence. An alibi suggests that they were not at the scene of the crime at the relevant time, thereby absolving them from responsibility for the alleged act. The other options do not serve the same function as an alibi. The statement about being forced to act implies coercion or duress but does not necessarily absolve the speaker of responsibility; it may instead suggest that they still played a role in the act, albeit under pressure. Similarly, expressing confusion indicates a lack of clarity or understanding of the situation, which doesn't eliminate culpability. Finally, stating that one forgot what happened suggests a lapse in memory rather than a lack of involvement, meaning it does not provide a clear defense against the accusation. Therefore, the statement about having an alibi is the only one that directly negates personal culpability.