What must an individual prove to claim official induced error?

To successfully claim official induced error, an individual must demonstrate that they relied on incorrect advice from an appropriate official. This means that the individual believed the information provided by a recognized authority or official was accurate and acted based on that belief. The premise behind this concept is that if an individual reasonably depends on guidance from a reliable source regarding the legality of their actions, and that guidance turns out to be incorrect, it may excuse or mitigate their criminal liability.

This principle underscores the importance of fair and accurate information from officials, as individuals often navigate complex legal landscapes and rely on the advice of those in positions of authority. If it can be shown that the error was induced by the official's incorrect information, it supports the defense that the individual did not possess the requisite mens rea, or guilty mind, needed for a crime. Thus, proving reliance on incorrect advice is central to establishing an official induced error claim.