What must be proven in aiding and abetting?

To establish aiding and abetting, it is essential to demonstrate knowledge of the crime’s commission. This means that the individual providing assistance must be aware that their actions are contributing to the commission of a crime. Aiding and abetting involves actively participating in or facilitating a crime, and the individual must have the requisite mental state to be implicated in the illegal activity.

In this context, simply assisting or being involved in a situation is not enough; the person must understand that a crime is taking place and that their assistance is intended to support that criminal act. This element of knowledge is crucial because it helps to differentiate between someone who is merely a bystander versus someone who is complicit in the crime.

The other options do not capture this essential element of culpability. For instance, merely considering a crime or planning it in advance without action does not constitute aiding and abetting unless there is demonstrable knowledge and active participation in the crime's execution. Similarly, providing assistance without knowledge does not meet the legal standard required for accountability in aiding and abetting.