18 U.S.C. § 2384 – Seditious Conspiracy
A statute aimed at conspiracies that use force to challenge or obstruct U.S. government authority.
What § 2384 targets.
Section 2384 makes it a federal crime for two or more people to conspire to use force against the United States government, its authority, or its laws.
The focus is on agreement and intent. The government does not need to prove that the plan succeeded—only that the conspirators agreed to pursue one of the prohibited objectives by force.
Prohibited conspiracies include plans to:
- Overthrow, put down, or destroy the U.S. government by force
- Levy war against the United States
- Oppose the authority of the United States by force
- Prevent, hinder, or delay the execution of federal law by force
- Seize, take, or possess U.S. government property by force and without lawful authority
Any place subject to U.S. jurisdiction qualifies, including States, Territories, and federal districts.
Penalties.
A conviction under § 2384 carries:
- Up to 20 years in federal prison
- Fines imposed under federal law
Why § 2384 matters.
Seditious conspiracy charges often appear in cases involving alleged coordinated efforts, planning, or organization directed at disrupting federal authority or enforcement. These cases typically turn on communications, intent, and the scope of alleged agreements.
Allegations of seditious conspiracy carry severe penalties and expansive theories of liability. If § 2384 is implicated, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our federal criminal defense attorneys to assess exposure and defense options.
