According to A.R.S. §13-104, penal statutes should be construed based on what principle?

The principle of "the spirit of the law" emphasizes the intended purpose and goals behind the legislation rather than a strict or literal interpretation of the text. This approach allows for a more flexible application of the law, ensuring that the intent of the lawmakers is upheld even if a rigid reading of the statute could lead to an unjust outcome.

In the context of A.R.S. §13-104, interpreting penal statutes with regard to their spirit means that judges and law enforcement officers should consider the broader implications and societal objectives that the law aims to achieve, such as justice, public safety, and fairness. This perspective promotes the idea that laws should be applied in a way that aligns with their foundational intent, rather than being confined solely to a literal interpretation that might not serve justice effectively.