When it comes to criminal charges in Louisiana, not all involvement in a crime is treated the same. Two common terms that can determine the outcome of a criminal case are principal and accessory after the fact. These roles differ not only in timing and intent, but also in how they’re prosecuted and punished. In this post, we’ll break down the difference between a principal and an accessory after the fact under Louisiana law—complete with real case examples and relevant statutes. What Is a Principal? Under Louisiana Revised Statute § 14:24, a principal is: “All persons concerned in the commission of a crime, whether present or absent, and whether they directly commit the act constituting the offense, aid and abet in its commission, or directly or indirectly counsel or procure another to commit the crime.” In short: if you help commit a crime in any way, you’re a principal. It doesn’t matter if you didn’t pull the trigger or weren’t at the scene—if you helped plan, encourage, or support it, you’re in. Key Takeaways: You must intend to participate in the crime. Your help can come before or during the crime. All principals are equally responsible for the offense. Case Example: State v. Pierre (1994) In this case, the defendant lured the victim to a location where a co-defendant shot and killed him. Although he didn’t fire the gun, the court ruled he was a principal to second-degree murder because he helped facilitate the crime. Moral of the story: Helping set up a crime can land you the same charge as the person who carries it out. What Is an Accessory After the Fact? Now contrast that with Louisiana Revised Statute § 14:25, which defines an accessory after the fact as: “Any person who, after the commission of a felony, shall harbor, conceal, or aid the offender, knowing or having reasonable ground to believe that the offender has committed the felony, and with the intent that he may avoid or escape from arrest, trial, conviction, or punishment.” This person didn’t help commit the crime, but stepped in after the fact to help the offender avoid justice. Key Takeaways: The crime must be already completed. You must know (or reasonably believe) that a felony was committed. Your actions are meant to **help the criminal avoid getting caught. Case Example: State v. Watson (1984) The defendant helped robbers escape by driving them away and hiding their identity. He wasn’t involved in the robbery itself, but was still convicted as an accessory after the fact because he knowingly helped them avoid capture. Bottom line: Covering up for a friend after they commit a felony is a crime too. Why the Distinction Matters Understanding whether someone is a principal or accessory after the fact can determine: What charges are filed What sentence they might face How a defense strategy is built Whether a plea deal is on the table Principals face the full force of the law for the underlying crime, while accessories face separate, lesser charges—but the consequences are still serious. Footnotes [^1]: See *State v. Tran*, 12-0020 (La. App. 4 Cir. 7/31/13), 120 So. 3d 933. --- Final Thoughts: If you're facing criminal charges in Louisiana—or even just questioning your level of involvement in a situation—it’s crucial to understand where you fall under the law. Whether you were part of the crime or helped cover it up, the legal system treats each role differently. Need legal help? Always consult with a criminal defense attorney who knows Louisiana law inside and out.