Question

Scenario 1:

Juan was charged with a crime under a newly passed law that imposes stricter penalties for the offense. He argues that the law cannot be applied to him because the crime was committed before the law was enacted. Discuss the validity of Juan's argument in light of the Generality Principle of Penal Laws.

Scenario 2:

Maria is a law enforcer assigned to a remote province. She apprehends a suspect who is believed to have committed a crime. However, there are no existing laws that specifically criminalize the suspect's actions. Can Maria still apprehend and charge the suspect? Explain the application of the Generality Principle of Penal Laws in this situation.