Kidnapping

Kidnapping is considered a very serious offense in the United States. When someone takes another person under forced custody against his or her will without the authority to do so, it is considered an act of kidnapping.

In 2000, over 850,000 people were kidnapped in the United States. Of these individuals, roughly 85-90% were under 18 years old. Clearly, children and teenagers are the main victims of this type of crime. “Family kidnapping” is the most common form of this act. In this case, the kidnapping involves family members, such as a mother running away with her children. “Stranger kidnapping,” in which someone unknown to the victim takes him or her away, is the least common form of this crime.

Kidnapping Penalties

Depending on the state, kidnapping may be punished in different ways. In Wisconsin, kidnapping is considered a felony. Depending on the circumstances, it may be punishable as a Class B felony (up to 60 years imprisonment), should the transfer of property in exchange for the release of the victim be involved, or as a Class C felony (a fine of up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 40 years).

Contact Us

If you have been charged with kidnapping or would like to learn more about kidnapping laws in Wisconsin, the Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys of Hart Powell, S.C. can help you. Please contact their law office today at (414) 271-9595 to set up an appointment.