(a) When a person believes that the use of physical force is necessary for any purpose justifying that use of physical force under this subchapter but the person is reckless or negligent either in forming that belief or in employing an excessive degree of physical force, the justification afforded by this subchapter is unavailable in a prosecution for an offense for which recklessness or negligence suffices to establish a culpable mental state.
(b) When a person is justified under this subchapter in using physical force but he or she recklessly or negligently injures or creates a substantial risk of injury to a third party, the justification afforded by this subchapter is unavailable in a prosecution for the recklessness or negligence toward the third party.
Structure Arkansas Code
Subtitle 1 - General Provisions
Chapter 2 - Principles of Criminal Liability
§ 5-2-603. Execution of public duty
§ 5-2-605. Use of physical force generally
§ 5-2-606. Use of physical force in defense of a person
§ 5-2-607. Use of deadly physical force in defense of a person
§ 5-2-608. Use of physical force in defense of premises
§ 5-2-609. Use of physical force in defense of property
§ 5-2-610. Use of physical force by law enforcement officers
§ 5-2-611. Use of physical force by private person aiding law enforcement officers
§ 5-2-612. Use of physical force in resisting arrest
§ 5-2-614. Use of reckless or negligent force
§ 5-2-615. Use of physical force by a pregnant woman in defense of her unborn child
§ 5-2-620. Use of force to defend persons and property within home