Torts I, Page 25
Ranson v. Kitner
Appellate Court of Illinois, 1889
Facts:
Defendant shot plaintiff's dog, thinking it was a wolf.
Procedural History:
Trial court found for plaintiff.
Issue:
Is mistake a defense to an intentional tort?
Rule:
: Good faith mistakes do not negate intent for intentional torts.
Reasoning:
They intended to shoot the animal, causing the outcome. They just didn't know what animal it was.
Rule/Holding:
A good faith mistake is not a defense to an intentional tort.
Judgment:
Affirmed.