What Are Federal Kidnapping Laws?

Loosely defined by state and federal law, kidnapping is the forceful moving of a person from one place to another with the use of fear, intimidation, and often the intent of collecting a ransom. The definition is often left in loose terms so that judges can adapt it to many different kinds of situations when needed. While kidnapping is typically charged at the state level, thanks to the Federal Kidnapping Act police have the authority to charge an abductor federally if they have transported a kidnapped person across state lines. Until this legislation was passed, there actually were no previous federal kidnapping laws. 

The Federal Kidnapping Act

After universally known and beloved pilot Charles Lindbergh Sr.’s toddler son was infamously kidnapped from his second-story nursery in March of 1932, the crime of kidnapping became a major focus on both the federal and state level. Later that year, Congress passed the Federal Kidnapping Act, also known as the Lindbergh Law. Until this was passed, there had never been charges for kidnapping at the federal level. This legislation allows for the FBI to take control of kidnapping cases that cross state lines, and prosecute the abductors on a federal level. The act also allows authorities to conclude if the kidnapped person has been missing for over 24 hours, they have more than likely been taken out of state and can take the appropriate steps to the federal level at that time. The typical sentence for someone convicted of breaking federal kidnapping laws is at least 20 years in prison unless the abductor is a parent or guardian of the kidnapped person. Many states also adopted laws similar to the Federal Kidnapping Act, often referred to as Little Lindbergh Laws. There is no statute of limitations on federal kidnapping charges, meaning there is no amount of time that can pass after the kidnapping incident that would allow the offender to not be prosecuted. 

The Adam Walsh Child Protection And Safety Act

Also known as the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act was signed into federal law in 2007. Serving as a partial amendment to the Federal Kidnapping Act, the updated legislation expands federal jurisdiction in many kidnapping cases. Now, any kidnapping incident where the abductor uses any form of interstate commerce can be charged at the federal level. There is no minimum usage required to enact this federal power, something as simple as using a phone or a highway cam qualify a kidnapping to be considered a federal offense. This act also establishes firm guidelines on the registration of sexual offenders and kidnappers based on a tiered list, from least to worst offenses. Those deemed dangerous enough to be categorized as a level 3 offender can be required to register and update their location for the rest of their lives. 

Kidnapping and Sex Trafficking

Child sex trafficking is becoming more and more prevalent in the United States and around the world. Many of these traffickers don’t kidnap their victims in the traditional violent way. Instead, they befriend them and gain their trust in order to manipulate them. They offer gifts, and attention.

Keeping Our Children Safe

It’s no secret, there are people in our world who prey on the innocence and naivety of children. Being mindful of your surroundings is only half the battle, but Kids Live Safe is here to help. Offering easy and accessible sex offender area searches, background checks, and life and parenting tips, they are in the business of keeping your family safe and happy. Visit them at https://www.kidslivesafe.com. They also offer an opportunity to get updates and news flashes regarding convicted sex offenders when they move into your neighborhood.