18 U.S.C. § 1362 – Destruction of Federal Communication Systems
Protects U.S.-controlled and defense-related communication systems from damage or interference.
Section 1362 makes it a federal crime to willfully or maliciously damage, destroy, or interfere with certain communication systems connected to the United States.
The statute covers communication infrastructure that is:
- Operated or controlled by the United States, or
- Used or intended to be used for military or civil defense functions
Types of protected systems.
The law applies to a broad range of communication works and materials, including:
- Radio systems
- Telegraph lines
- Telephone systems
- Cable lines and stations
- Other U.S.-controlled communication networks
Protection extends to systems that are already operational as well as those under construction.
Prohibited conduct.
A violation may involve:
- Injuring or destroying communication property
- Interfering with the operation or use of a system
- Obstructing, hindering, or delaying the transmission of communications
- Attempting or conspiring to commit any of the above acts
Penalties.
A violation of § 1362 is punishable by:
- Up to 10 years in federal prison
- Fines under Title 18
Labor activity carve-out.
The statute does not apply to lawful strike activity or other lawful concerted labor actions involving non-U.S.-controlled systems, so long as the conduct does not injure or destroy lines used or intended for U.S. military or civil defense functions.
If a federal investigation involves alleged interference with government or defense-related communications, contact our federal criminal defense attorneys to discuss how § 1362 may apply.
