pinkerton rule
Pinkerton rule. Criminal law. The doctrine imposing liability on a conspirator for all offenses committed in furtherance of the conspiracy, even if those offenses are actually performed by coconspirators. Pinkerton v. United States, 328 U.S. 640, 66 S.Ct. 1180 (1946). [Cases: Conspiracy 41. C.J.S. Conspiracy §§ 134–137; RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations)§ 12.]