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Kidnapping ORC § 2905.01

Definition of Kidnapping:

  • By force, threat, or deception,
  • Removing another from the place where the other person is found or restraining the liberty of another person,
  • For ransom, involuntary servitude, sex, or other such reason.

Potential Penalties:

While kidnapping for ransom and compassing the death of a kidnap victim used to be capital offenses, potentially invoking the death penalty, it is now doubtful that the death penalty would be constitutional under those circumstances. However, purposely causing the death of a kidnap victim would constitute aggravated murder and could invoke the death penalty as the offense is committed during the commission of a felony.

Generally speaking, if an offender is found guilty, kidnapping is considered a felony of the first degree, invoking a 3-11 year prison sentence and a penalty of up to $20,000. But if the offender places the victim in a safe place unharmed, it is a felony of the second degree, invoking a penalty of 2-8 years and a fine of up to $15,000.

At Funkhouser Law, from the moment a client walks through the door, we presume that they are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As such, we work hard to accomplish the most favorable outcome for each of our clients. If you have been accused of kidnapping, please call Funkhouser Law for a free consultation with an experienced, peer-rated lawyer.

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