Kidnapping is charged as either a first or second degree crime, but unlike many crimes with multiple charging levels, both degrees are felonies.
Second Degree Kidnapping is defined simply as abducting another person, and carries a sentence of up to 25 years in prison.
Kidnapping in the First Degree is defined as abducting a person with the intent of collecting a ransom, or when the victim is restrained for a period of 12 hours or more during the commission of another felony, where physical injury or sexual assault occurs, to terrorize another person, or to interfere with the actions of government.
This is a Class A-1 felony that can put you in prison for the rest of your life.
Kidnapping is rarely charged alone, which means that a kidnapping prosecution carries a significant risk of losing your freedom for years or decades.
Call our experienced NYC criminal defense team at (212) 577-6677 to schedule an immediate consultation.
