Kidnapping Defense Lawyers in Worcester
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties
There are two types of kidnapping charges in Massachusetts, and both count as felonies carrying severe legal consequences. A kidnapping lawyer at Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray can passionately defend clients facing these charges, since penalties depend heavily on prior criminal history and the exact circumstances involved.
What Constitutes Kidnapping
Under Massachusetts law, kidnapping involves forcibly or secretly confining or imprisoning another person against their will without legal authorization. It also applies if someone forcibly carries or sends another person out of the Commonwealth, or holds a victim to service against their will. Kidnapping with intent to extort money or other valuables carries especially harsh punishment.
Penalties
- Base penalties: Ranging from two years up to a life sentence, depending on the circumstances.
- Kidnapping with a firearm or other dangerous weapon: No less than ten years in prison.
- Kidnapping with intent to extort: No less than 20 years, with the possibility of a life sentence.
- Kidnapping with a dangerous weapon and serious bodily injury: No less than 25 years in state prison.
- Kidnapping a minor under 16: No less than 15 years in state prison.