Kidnapping
Kidnapping is an offense which negatively affects all parties involved. This offense can be committed against children and adults alike, and requires no ill-intent or criminal purpose. A kidnapping offense can be committed by a parent, guardian, or by a stranger.
This crime typically involves some type of harm to the victim resulting in additional charges. Regardless of the actor’s reasons or intent, kidnapping carries a stigma that is nearly impossible to erase. If you or someone you know is charged with kidnapping, you need a dedicated attorney with a history of aggressive defense strategy working on your behalf.
Utah Kidnapping Defense Attorney
Susanne Gustin is a reputable criminal defense attorney who is skilled at defending clients accused of violent crimes. If you have been charged with kidnapping, she will fight the criminal charges and achieve the most favorable outcome in your case. It’s time to act now and contact Susanne Gustin Attorney at Law.
Utah kidnapping attorney Susanne Gustin represents clients from Salt Lake County, Davis County, Midvale, Holladay, South Lake, and surrounding areas. Call (801) 243-2814 for a free, initial consultation. She will provide a thorough evaluation of your case and act quickly to protect your rights.
Kidnapping Information Center
Kidnapping in Utah
In the state of Utah, kidnapping is considered a severe crime. The penalties for this offense are serious and could change your life indefinitely. According to Utah code §76-5-301, kidnapping is defined as:
- The illegal and intentional or knowing detaining or restraint of a victim for any period of time against his or her will;
- Detaining or restraint of a victim in circumstances exposing the victim to risk of bodily injury;
- Holding of a victim in involuntary servitude;
- Detaining or restraint of a minor, between the ages of 14 and 18, without his parent or legal guardian’s consent; or
- Movement of a victim any substantial distance across a state line.
Kidnapping is a second-degree felony punishable by a maximum of 15 years imprisonment and up to $5,000. In addition to the legal consequences, kidnapping charges carry a social stigma which is more difficult to remove. Whether the act is committed by a close family member with no additional felonious activities, or an aggravated kidnapping, this offense requires registry on Utah’s Sex Offender and Kidnap Offender Notification and Registration Website except in the case that the actor is a natural parent. Information provided on the kidnap offender registry is public information available to anyone with access to the site. This may feel extremely invasive for those listed on the registry.
What is Aggravated Kidnapping in Utah?
An accusation of kidnapping is bad enough, but a conviction of aggravated kidnapping is even more serious. According to Utah code §76-5-302, kidnapping is enhanced to an aggravated kidnapping charge when an individual:
- During a kidnapping, the actor possesses, uses, or threatens to use a dangerous weapon; or when he or she intends to:
- Hold a victim for ransom or as a hostage;
- Facilitate or attempt the commission, or flight after commission or attempted commission of a felony;
- Hinder or delay discovery of or reporting a felony;
- Inflict bodily injury or to terrorize the victim or another;
- Interfere with performance of any governmental or political function; or
- Commits a sexual offense in §76-5-4.
This offense is increased to a first-degree felony punishable by 15 years to life imprisonment in addition to $10,000 in fines. As stated previously, kidnapping in itself is considered a severe crime in the state of Utah. Aside from harsh fines and time spent behind bars, a conviction could even affect your ability to obtain a home loan or approval for an apartment.
Additional Resources for Kidnapping
FBI: Kidnapping – Visit the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) website to view a list of most recently kidnapped/missing individuals. The FBI also lists information on individuals convicted of parental kidnapping.
Kidnapping: Utah Code – Visit Utah Code 76-5-301 which constitutes the kidnapping crime. The webpage defines the offense and lists it as a second degree felony. Click the link to view certain definitions related to the term.
Salt Lake County Kidnapping Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of kidnapping, it is imperative that you speak to a Utah criminal defense law firm such as Susanne Gustin Attorney at Law. Defending kidnapping allegations can be a complex process, but attorney Susanne Gustin will fight aggressively on your behalf. She handles violent crime cases very carefully and seriously.
Call Susanne Gustin Attorney at Law at (801) 243-2814 to discussion your options during a free, initial consultation. Susanne Gustin services clients throughout Utah. She also defends individuals in Davis County, Salt Lake City, and surrounding areas. Susanne Gustin Attorney at Law is dedicated to helping you ease out of such a fearsome and stressful situation.