Jason Michael Hurst Missouri Cases

Jason Michael Hurst appealed his convictions for first-degree tampering and resisting arrest, arguing the circuit court erred by refusing to give jury instructions on the defense of necessity. Hurst claimed he stole a police vehicle and engaged in a high-speed chase to protect himself and his wife from perceived police abuse. The Supreme Court of Missouri affirmed the circuit court's judgment, holding that Hurst failed to present substantial evidence to support the elements of a necessity defense under section 563.026. The Court also found sufficient evidence to support the resisting arrest conviction, as Hurst was not yet under police control despite being handcuffed.