No one shall be called a principal felon except the party actually committing the felony, or the party present aiding and abetting in its commission.

Explanation

A principal in felony is either the person who commits the act or one who is physically present and actively assists — absence from the scene makes one an accessory, not a principal.

Where this applies

• Someone who was not present when a crime was committed is charged as a principal.
• The distinction between principal and accessory in a felony is at issue.