18 U.S.C. § 1203 – Hostage Taking
This statute makes it a federal crime to seize or detain a person to force someone else to act.
This statute addresses situations where a person is held as leverage to compel a government, organization, or individual to do or not do something. These cases often involve demands, threats, or attempts to influence decisions through detention.
Federal jurisdiction commonly applies when the conduct involves foreign nationals, international elements, or impacts U.S. interests.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly:
- Seize or detain another person
- Threaten to kill, injure, or continue holding that person
- Use the detention to force a government, organization, or individual to take action
The government must prove that the detention was intended to coerce someone else, not merely restrain the alleged victim.
Penalties.
A conviction can result in decades in federal prison. If the alleged conduct results in death, the penalties can include life imprisonment.
Attempts or conspiracy.
Attempted hostage taking or participation in a plan to take a hostage can still lead to federal charges.
If you’re under investigation or charged with hostage-taking allegations, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys for guidance.
