An alibi is a form of evidence used to defend against a criminal charge by demonstrating that the accused was somewhere other than the scene of the crime when the crime was committed.
In Arkansas, as in other jurisdictions, an alibi is a defense strategy used in criminal proceedings where the accused aims to prove they were in a different location at the time the crime was committed and therefore could not have been involved in the alleged criminal act. The alibi defense is not specifically outlined in Arkansas statutes, but it is a well-established principle in criminal law, supported by case law and procedural rules. Arkansas Rule of Criminal Procedure 17.1 requires the defendant to notify the court and the prosecution if they intend to rely on the defense of alibi. The notice must include specific information about the place where the defendant claims to have been at the time of the alleged offense and the names and addresses of the witnesses the defense intends to call to support the alibi. This rule ensures that the prosecution has a fair opportunity to investigate the alibi claim and prepare for trial. Failure to provide proper notice can result in the exclusion of alibi evidence at trial. It is important for anyone considering an alibi defense to consult with an attorney to ensure that all procedural requirements are met and that the defense is presented effectively.