Kidnapping: penalties in each state and country
Taking or holding a person against their will, often to demand money, to commit another crime, or while armed.
What to look for: Releasing the victim unharmed lowers the grade in some states.
These are statutory ranges for a first offence, from the least to the most the law allows. A court decides the actual sentence in each case. Not legal advice.
34 states covered so far
Alabama
2 to 20 years (second degree) up to life or 99 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the second degree (abducting a person using, or with intent to use, deception, physical force or deadly physical force) (Class B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $30,000, or twice the gain or loss
Kidnapping in the first degree (abducting a person with one of the listed intents) (Class A felony)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment or up to 99 years
- Fine
- Up to $60,000, or twice the gain or loss
Alaska
5 to 99 years (unclassified), or Class A (up to 20 years) where an affirmative defence applies
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (unclassified felony) (Unclassified felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 99 years
- Fine
- Up to $500,000
In a prosecution for kidnapping, an affirmative defence reduces the crime to a class A felony.
Arizona
1 to 3.75 years (victim released unharmed) up to 3 to 12.5 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping, where the victim is released voluntarily without injury in a safe place before arrest (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 3.75 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 2.5 years, between 1.5 and 3 years; 1 year if mitigated and 3.75 years if aggravated (§ 13-702).
Kidnapping (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 12.5 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 5 years, between 4 and 10 years; 3 years if the court finds mitigating factors and 12.5 years if it finds aggravating factors (§ 13-702). If it is a dangerous offence, the range is 7 to 21 years (§ 13-704).
California
3 to 8 years, up to life, with or without parole
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 8 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Three possible terms set by the statute: 3, 5 or 8. The court chooses among them. If the victim was under 14: 5, 8 or 11 years (§ 208(b)).
Kidnapping to commit robbery, rape or certain other crimes (Felony)
- Least
- Life with the possibility of parole
- Most
- Life with the possibility of parole
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Kidnapping for ransom, reward or extortion (Felony)
- Least
- Life with the possibility of parole
- Most
- Life without the possibility of parole
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Life without parole if the victim suffers death or bodily harm, or is confined in a way that exposes them to a substantial likelihood of death. Otherwise life with the possibility of parole.
Colorado
A class 4 felony (second degree) up to a class 1 felony (first degree, bodily injury)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Second-degree kidnapping (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 6 years
- Fine
- $2,000 to $500,000
Second-degree kidnapping in aggravated circumstances (Class 3 felony)
- Least
- 4 years
- Most
- 12 years
- Fine
- $3,000 to $750,000
First-degree kidnapping where the person kidnapped was liberated unharmed before conviction (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 24 years
- Fine
- $5,000 to $1,000,000
First-degree kidnapping where the person kidnapped suffered bodily injury (Class 1 felony)
- Least
- Life imprisonment
- Most
- Life imprisonment
Connecticut
A class A felony (first degree): 10 to 25 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- Up to $20,000
Delaware
Up to 2 years (first-degree unlawful imprisonment, class G) up to 25 years (kidnapping in the first degree, class B)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Unlawful imprisonment in the second degree (Class A misdemeanor)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 1 year
- Fine
- A fine of up to $2,300
Unlawful imprisonment in the first degree (restraint that exposes the person to the risk of serious physical injury) (Class G felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 2 years
Kidnapping in the second degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
Kidnapping in the first degree (to hold for ransom, to use as a shield or hostage, to facilitate a felony, to inflict injury or abuse sexually, to terrorise, or to take a child from a custodian) (Class B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 25 years
Florida
Up to life imprisonment
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- A term of years up to life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
A first-degree felony punishable by a term of years up to life.
Idaho
1 to 25 years (second degree); death or life (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the second degree (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 25 years
Kidnapping in the first degree (Offence)
- Least
- Life imprisonment (the alternative is death)
- Most
- Death
A death sentence cannot be imposed if the kidnapped person was liberated unharmed before sentencing.
Illinois
A Class 2 felony: 3 to 7 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Up to $25,000, or the amount specified in the offence if greater
Iowa
Up to 10 years (third degree) to life without parole (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the third degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of $1,370 to $13,660
Kidnapping in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 25 years
Where the purpose is ransom, the kidnapper is armed with a dangerous weapon, or the victim is under 18.
Kidnapping in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment, with no parole unless the Governor commutes the sentence
Maine
Up to 30 years (Class A), or Class B if the victim is released safely
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping where the defendant voluntarily released the victim alive, not seriously injured, in a safe place before trial (Class B crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Kidnapping (Class A crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $50,000
Maryland
Up to 30 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 30 years
Massachusetts
Up to 10 years, or a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 2 years in jail
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping: without lawful authority forcibly or secretly confining or imprisoning another person against their will (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Or a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 2 years in jail
A person who commits it while armed with a dangerous weapon, or against a child under 16, is punished more heavily (the section was not read in full).
Michigan
Life or any term of years, or a fine of up to $50,000
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, or both
The court may impose life or any term of years.
Minnesota
Up to 20 years (victim released safely) up to 40 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping where the victim is released in a safe place without great bodily harm (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $35,000
Kidnapping where the victim is not released in a safe place, or suffers great bodily harm (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 40 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $50,000
Missouri
A class B felony up to a class A felony (kidnapping in the first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the first degree, committed to inflict physical injury or to terrorise the victim, or a similar listed purpose (Class B felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
Kidnapping in the first degree, committed for ransom, reward, as a shield or hostage, or a similar listed purpose (Class A felony)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 30 years, or life imprisonment
Montana
2 to 10 years (kidnapping); death, life, or 2 to 100 years (aggravated kidnapping)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, in addition
Aggravated kidnapping (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years (the alternatives are life or death; maximum term 100 years)
- Most
- Death
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, in addition
If the offender voluntarily released the victim alive, in a safe place, and the victim was not seriously injured, the term is 2 to 10 years.
Nebraska
A Class II felony (if the victim is released safely) up to a Class IA felony
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping where the person kidnapped was voluntarily released or liberated alive, in a safe place, without having suffered serious bodily injury, before trial (Class II felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 50 years
Kidnapping (Class IA felony)
- Least
- Life imprisonment
- Most
- Life imprisonment
Nevada
2 to 15 years (second degree); life or 15 to 40 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the second degree (Category B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- A fine may be added
Kidnapping in the first degree, where the victim suffers no substantial bodily harm (Category A felony)
- Least
- 5 years before parole eligibility
- Most
- Life imprisonment, with the possibility of parole
The court may instead impose a definite term of 15 years with parole eligibility after 5 years.
Kidnapping in the first degree, where the victim suffers substantial bodily harm (Category A felony)
- Least
- 15 years before parole eligibility
- Most
- Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole
The options are life without parole, life with parole after 15 years, or a definite 40 years with parole eligibility after 15 years.
New Hampshire
A class B felony (if the victim is released safely before trial) up to a class A felony
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping where the actor voluntarily releases the victim without serious bodily injury and in a safe place prior to trial (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Up to $4,000
Kidnapping (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $4,000
New York
Up to 4 years (unlawful imprisonment) up to life (kidnapping in the first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Unlawful imprisonment in the first degree (Class E felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 4 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
A non-violent felony carries an indeterminate sentence. The court sets the maximum, and the minimum is at least 1 year and no more than one-third of the maximum (§ 70.00).
Kidnapping in the second degree (Class B violent felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
Kidnapping in the first degree (Class A-I felony)
- Least
- A life sentence with a minimum of at least 15 years
- Most
- Life, with a minimum of up to 25 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
North Carolina
Class E (second degree) up to Class C (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the second degree (the person was released in a safe place, not seriously injured or sexually assaulted) (Class E felony)
- Least
- 15 months (1 year 3 months)
- Most
- 50 months (4 years 2 months)
- Fine
- Fine in the court's discretion, in addition to imprisonment
Prior Record Level I: the minimum term runs from 15 to 31 months (mitigated 15 to 20, presumptive 20 to 25, aggravated 25 to 31). The maximum is 50 months where the minimum is 31 (G.S. 15A-1340.17(e)). The chart allows an intermediate or active punishment at this level.
Kidnapping in the first degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- 44 months (3 years 8 months)
- Most
- 123 months (10 years 3 months)
- Fine
- Fine in the court's discretion, in addition to imprisonment
Prior Record Level I: the minimum term runs from 44 to 92 months (mitigated 44 to 58, presumptive 58 to 73, aggravated 73 to 92). The maximum is 123 months where the minimum is 92 (G.S. 15A-1340.17(e)). Active prison is required.
North Dakota
Up to 10 years (released alive in a safe place, class B) up to 20 years (class A)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping where the actor voluntarily releases the victim alive and in a safe place before trial (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Kidnapping (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Ohio
Felony of the second degree (the victim released in a safe place unharmed) up to felony of the first degree
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping, where the victim is released in a safe place unharmed (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- 2 years (minimum term)
- Most
- 12 years (an 8 year minimum plus 50 per cent)
- Fine
- Up to $15,000
Kidnapping (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- 3 years (minimum term)
- Most
- 16 years 6 months (an 11 year minimum plus 50 per cent)
- Fine
- Up to $20,000
Pennsylvania
A felony of the first degree
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping: unlawfully removing a person a substantial distance, or confining them for a substantial period, for a listed purpose (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
Rhode Island
Up to 20 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping: without lawful authority forcibly or secretly confining or imprisoning another, or forcibly carrying or sending another out of the state (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
South Carolina
Up to 30 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years
South Dakota
Life imprisonment (Class C), and Class B if serious bodily injury is inflicted
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the first degree (to hold for ransom, as a hostage, to facilitate a felony, to injure or terrorise, to interfere with a government function, or to take a child under 14) (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine of $50,000 may be added
Aggravated kidnapping in the first degree (serious bodily injury inflicted on the victim) (Class B felony)
- Least
- Life (a lesser sentence may not be given)
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine of $50,000 may be added
Texas
2 to 10 years (kidnapping) up to 5 to 99 years, or life (aggravated kidnapping)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping (Felony of the third degree)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Aggravated kidnapping, where the victim is voluntarily released in a safe place (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
The defendant must prove release in a safe place at the punishment stage.
Aggravated kidnapping (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 99 years, or life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Vermont
Up to life, or a fine of up to $50,000, or both; up to 30 years if the victim was released alive and safe
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping, where the defendant voluntarily released the victim alive in a safe place before arraignment without serious bodily injury (affirmative defence) (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, or both
Kidnapping (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, or both
Virginia
1 to 10 years, or jail (abduction) up to 20 years to life (abduction for gain, or of a minor)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Abduction (Class 5 felony)
- Least
- 1 year in prison, or no prison term if the court chooses jail instead
- Most
- 10 years, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
Abduction for which no other punishment is prescribed.
Abduction of a minor (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 20 years
- Most
- Life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Abduction of a minor is punished as a Class 2 felony, with exceptions in § 18.2-47(D).
Abduction for ransom or pecuniary benefit, or with intent to defile (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 20 years
- Most
- Life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Washington
Up to 10 years (second degree) up to life (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $20,000
A Class A felony if there is a finding of sexual motivation.
Kidnapping in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to $50,000
West Virginia
Life imprisonment without parole (unless the jury recommends mercy); 10 to 30 years in some cases
Show the degrees and the statutes
Kidnapping: taking custody of, concealing, confining or restraining another by force, threat, duress or deceit, with intent to hold for ransom, inflict bodily injury, terrorise or use as a shield or hostage (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
A jury may recommend mercy, in which case the person is eligible for parole. A person who pleads guilty, or whose victim is released under listed conditions, receives a lesser term of years (§ 61-2-14a(b)).
32 countries covered so far
Country codes name the same acts differently, so each entry says which offence is the closest match. Ranges are from the code’s own text.
Algeria
5 to 10 years up to life (torture, ransom, or uniform or false order)
Show the degrees and the articles
Abduction, arrest, detention or confinement of a person without lawful order (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years' réclusion
10 to 20 years if the detention lasted more than a month.
Abduction by violence, threats or fraud, of a person of any age (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years' réclusion
Abduction with a uniform or false order, by motor vehicle, under threat of death, with torture, or for ransom (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion criminelle à perpétuité)
Argentina
6 months to 3 years (unlawful deprivation of liberty) up to life (ransom kidnapping where the victim is intentionally killed)
Show the degrees and the articles
Unlawfully depriving another of personal liberty (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 3 years
Deprivation of liberty with violence or threats, or against a relative or a person owed particular respect, or causing serious harm, among others (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 6 years
Taking, holding or hiding a person to force them or a third party to do, not do or tolerate something (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
The minimum rises to 8 years if the offender achieves the purpose. A range of 10 to 25 years applies in aggravated cases, such as a pregnant woman, a minor under 18 or a person over 70.
Taking, holding or hiding a person to obtain a ransom (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 5 years (8 years if the offender achieves the purpose; 10 years in aggravated cases)
- Most
- 15 years (25 years in aggravated cases; life if the victim is intentionally killed)
Austria
Up to 3 years (Freiheitsentziehung) up to 10 to 20 years or life (abduction for extortion that results in death)
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Freiheitsentziehung (unlawfully holding another or depriving them of personal liberty) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years
The same, lasting more than a month, or with special torment or especially grave disadvantages (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Erpresserische Entführung (abducting a person to force a third party to act or to put up with an act) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years
6 months to 5 years if the offender releases the victim voluntarily without the demanded performance (§ 102(4)).
Erpresserische Entführung resulting in the death of the victim (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 10 years (up to 20 years if a fixed term is chosen)
- Most
- Life imprisonment (lebenslange Freiheitsstrafe)
Brazil
1 to 3 years (unlawful deprivation of liberty) up to 24 to 30 years (kidnapping for ransom, resulting in death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Sequestro ou cárcere privado (kidnapping or false imprisonment) (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 3 years
2 to 5 years in the listed cases (victim a relative or over 60 or under 18, held in a hospital, held for more than 15 days, or for sexual purposes).
Extorsão mediante sequestro (kidnapping to obtain a ransom or advantage) (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 15 years
The same, lasting over 24 hours, or of a victim under 18 or over 60, or by a gang (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 12 years
- Most
- 20 years
The same, where grievous bodily harm results (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 16 years
- Most
- 24 years
The same, where death results (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 24 years
- Most
- 30 years
Bulgaria
3 to 10 years (abduction); 7 to 15 years (armed, by several persons, or a minor); 10 to 20 years or life (repeat, or serious consequences)
Show the degrees and the articles
Abduction (отвличане) (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Abduction while armed, by two or more persons, or of a pregnant woman or a person under 18, among others (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- 15 years
Abduction repeated, or with significant harmful consequences (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years
The range is 10 to 20 years or life imprisonment.
Canada
Imprisonment for life; at least 4 years if a firearm is used
Show the degrees and the articles
Kidnapping (Indictable offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
No minimum is set where no firearm is used and the victim is not under 16.
Kidnapping with a firearm (Indictable offence)
- Least
- 4 years (5 years if a restricted or prohibited firearm is used, or if it is for a criminal organization)
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
China
Up to 3 years (unlawful detention) up to 10 years to life (kidnapping for ransom), and life or death if the victim is killed
Show the degrees and the articles
Unlawful detention (非法拘禁罪) (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years' fixed-term imprisonment, or criminal detention, control or deprivation of political rights
The penalty is increased where beating or humiliation is involved.
Unlawful detention causing serious injury, or death (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 3 years for serious injury, or 10 years for death
- Most
- 15 years' fixed-term imprisonment
Where violence causes disability or death, arts. 234 and 232 apply.
Kidnapping to extort property or to take a hostage (绑架罪), in relatively minor circumstances (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years' fixed-term imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine is imposed as well
Kidnapping to extort property or to take a hostage (绑架罪) (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 10 years (if a fixed term is chosen)
- Most
- Life imprisonment (无期徒刑), or fixed-term imprisonment of 15 years
A fine or confiscation of property is also imposed.
Kidnapping where the victim is killed, or seriously injured or killed through intentional injury (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death, or life imprisonment
Confiscation of property is also imposed.
Croatia
Up to 3 years (unlawful deprivation of liberty); 6 months to 5 years (to coerce another); up to 15 years (hostage-taking where death results)
Show the degrees and the articles
Unlawful deprivation of liberty (protupravno oduzimanje slobode) (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years
Hostage-taking (otmica): depriving a person of liberty to coerce a third party to act, refrain or tolerate (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 5 years
Hostage-taking with a threat to kill, in a cruel way, with serious bodily injury, or against a child, a person with a severe disability or a close person (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Hostage-taking in which the hostage dies (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 15 years
Czechia
2 to 8 years (deprivation of personal liberty); 5 to 12 years (aggravated)
Show the degrees and the articles
Deprivation of personal liberty (zbavení osobní svobody) (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 8 years
Deprivation of personal liberty as a member of an organised group, and in other aggravated circumstances (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 12 years
England and Wales
Up to life imprisonment (no statutory minimum)
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Kidnap and false imprisonment (common-law offences) (Indictable offence (Crown Court))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
The offences are defined by case law, not by statute.
Finland
Up to 2 years (deprivation of liberty) up to 10 years (taking a hostage)
Show the degrees and the articles
Deprivation of liberty (vapaudenriisto) (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 2 years
- Fine
- Or a fine (day-fines)
Aggravated deprivation of liberty (törkeä vapaudenriisto) (Offence)
- Least
- 4 months
- Most
- 4 years
Hostage-taking (panttivangin ottaminen) (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
France
5 years (released before the 7th day) up to life (torture or death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Arrest, abduction, detention or confinement of a person, released voluntarily before the 7th day (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years' imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €75,000
The same, without release before the 7th day (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years' criminal imprisonment
Hostage taking, or kidnapping to obtain a ransom or an order (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years' criminal imprisonment
10 years' imprisonment if the hostage is released voluntarily before the 7th day, unless one of the harms in article 224-2 occurred.
Kidnapping with torture, barbarous acts or the victim's death (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion criminelle à perpétuité)
Germany
Up to 5 years (unlawful imprisonment) up to life or at least 10 years (kidnapping for extortion that causes death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Freiheitsberaubung (unlawful imprisonment) (Vergehen (less serious offence: lower minimum, or a fine))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- A fine may be imposed instead of prison
Freiheitsberaubung for more than one week, or causing serious damage to health (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Erpresserischer Menschenraub (abduction for the purpose of extortion) and Geiselnahme (hostage-taking) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Less serious cases: at least 1 year.
The same, where the offender at least recklessly causes the victim's death (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Or life imprisonment.
Hungary
Up to 3 years (deprivation of liberty) up to 20 years or life (aggravated kidnapping for ransom)
Show the degrees and the articles
Deprivation of personal liberty (személyi szabadság megsértése) (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years
Kidnapping (emberrablás): depriving a person of liberty by force, threat or incapacitation, and making release depend on a demand (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 8 years
Kidnapping, aggravated (for example, a victim under 18, a criminal association, or an official victim) (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
Kidnapping, further aggravated (for example, a victim under 14, or causing particularly serious harm) (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment
The range is 5 to 20 years or life.
Iceland
Up to 4 years (deprivation of liberty); 1 to 16 years or life (aggravated)
Show the degrees and the articles
Deprivation of liberty (frelsissvipting) (Offence (fangelsi))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 4 years
General Penal Code of Iceland (Almenn hegningarlög), art. 226
Deprivation of liberty for gain or for a long time, or placing a person in an institution without authority, taking them abroad or handing them to people with no right to them (Offence (fangelsi))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- Life imprisonment
The range is at least 1 year and up to 16 years, or life.
General Penal Code of Iceland (Almenn hegningarlög), art. 226
India
Up to 7 years (kidnapping) up to life (to murder) and death (for ransom, with threat or hurt)
Show the degrees and the articles
Kidnapping from India or from lawful guardianship (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years' imprisonment of either description
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Kidnapping or abducting a person with intent to confine them secretly and wrongfully (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years' imprisonment of either description
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Kidnapping or abducting a person in order that they may be murdered or put in danger of being murdered (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment for up to 10 years
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Kidnapping or abducting a person and threatening or causing death or hurt, to compel the Government, a person or an organisation to act, or to pay a ransom (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death, or imprisonment for life
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Ireland
Up to imprisonment for life (false imprisonment)
Show the degrees and the articles
False imprisonment (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
- Fine
- A fine, with or without imprisonment
Ireland's offence is false imprisonment: intentionally or recklessly taking or detaining another, causing another to be taken or detained, or otherwise restricting another's personal liberty without consent. On summary conviction the maximum is a fine or 12 months.
Italy
6 months to 8 years (sequestro di persona) up to 25 to 30 years (for extortion), and life if the victim is killed
Show the degrees and the articles
Sequestro di persona (depriving a person of personal liberty) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 8 years
1 to 10 years against an ascendant, descendant or spouse, or by a public official abusing power. 3 to 12 years against a minor, and 3 to 15 years in the gravest cases.
Sequestro di persona a scopo di estorsione (kidnapping to obtain a profit as the price of release) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 25 years
- Most
- 30 years
30 years if the victim dies as an unintended result.
Sequestro di persona a scopo di estorsione where the offender causes the victim's death (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (ergastolo)
Japan
3 months to 7 years up to life (kidnapping for ransom)
Show the degrees and the articles
Unlawful arrest or confinement (逮捕・監禁) (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 3 months
- Most
- 7 years
Abduction or kidnapping of a minor (未成年者略取・誘拐) (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 3 months
- Most
- 7 years
Kidnapping for ransom (身の代金目的略取) (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment (detention for life)
Life or a fixed term of at least 3 years.
Latvia
Up to 5 years (abduction of a person); up to 7 years (a minor); 3 to 12 years (serious consequences)
Show the degrees and the articles
Abduction of a person (personas nolaupīšana): seizing a person by violence or threats, or taking them away by deceit or by exploiting their helplessness (Offence (brīvības atņemšana))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
Or short-term custody or probation
Abduction of a minor (Offence (brīvības atņemšana))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years
Abduction that caused serious consequences (Offence (brīvības atņemšana))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 12 years
Morocco
5 to 10 years up to life (hostage, ransom) or death (torture)
Show the degrees and the articles
Abduction, arrest, detention or confinement of a person without lawful order (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years' réclusion
10 to 20 years if the detention lasted 30 days or more.
Abduction to take a hostage, to prepare a crime or help someone escape, or to obtain a ransom or an order (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion perpétuelle)
Abduction where the victim is tortured (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death
Netherlands
Up to 8 years (deprivation of liberty) up to 12 years (resulting in death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Vrijheidsberoving (deliberately and unlawfully depriving a person of liberty) (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 8 years' prison
9 years if it causes serious bodily injury, and 12 years if it causes death (art. 282(2), (3)).
New Zealand
Up to 14 years
Show the degrees and the articles
Kidnapping: unlawfully taking away or detaining a person without consent, or with consent obtained by fraud or duress, with a listed intent such as holding for ransom (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 14 years
Norway
A fine or up to 3 years (deprivation of liberty); up to 10 years (aggravated)
Show the degrees and the articles
Deprivation of liberty (frihetsberøvelse), by confinement, abduction or other unlawful means (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years
- Fine
- Or a fine (bot)
Aggravated deprivation of liberty (grov frihetsberøvelse), considering the duration and whether it caused extraordinary suffering, death or considerable harm (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
Portugal
Up to 3 years or a fine (abduction); 2 to 10 years (aggravated); 3 to 15 years (most serious)
Show the degrees and the articles
Abduction or unlawful detention (sequestro) (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years
- Fine
- Or a fine
Abduction, if the deprivation of liberty lasts over 2 days or is accompanied by other listed circumstances (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
Abduction, in the most serious forms of art. 158(3) (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 15 years
Russia
Up to 5 years up to 15 years
Show the degrees and the articles
Kidnapping (Crime of medium gravity)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years' imprisonment (or forced labour for up to 5 years)
Kidnapping by a group, with violence dangerous to life or health, with a weapon, of a minor or a pregnant woman, of two or more people, or for gain (Especially grave crime)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 12 years' imprisonment
Kidnapping by an organised group, or causing death or other grave consequences by negligence (Especially grave crime)
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 15 years' imprisonment
A person who frees the victim voluntarily is released from criminal liability for the kidnapping itself, unless the acts contain another crime (note to Art. 126).
South Korea
Up to 10 years (a minor) up to 15 years (for exploitation or an organ)
Show the degrees and the articles
Abduction or luring of a minor (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
Abduction or luring for the purpose of indecency, intercourse, marriage or profit (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Abduction or luring for forced labour, sexual exploitation or removal of organs (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 15 years
Spain
4 to 6 years (detención ilegal) up to 6 to 10 years (secuestro), and more where longer or aggravated
Show the degrees and the articles
Detención ilegal (a private person who confines or detains another) (Pena grave (prison of more than 5 years))
- Least
- 4 years
- Most
- 6 years
A lower penalty if the victim is freed within three days without the aim being achieved.
The same, lasting more than 15 days (Pena grave (prison of more than 5 years))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 8 years
Secuestro (kidnapping a person while demanding a condition for their release) (Pena grave (prison of more than 5 years))
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 10 years
A higher penalty if it lasted over 15 days. The penalties of arts. 163 to 164 apply in their upper half where the offender simulated authority, or the victim is a minor, a person with a disability or a public official (art. 165).
Sweden
Up to 2 years (olaga frihetsberövande, less gross) up to 4 to 18 years or life (människorov)
Show the degrees and the articles
Olaga frihetsberövande, less gross (unlawful deprivation of liberty, less gross) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 2 years
Or fines.
Olaga frihetsberövande (unlawful deprivation of liberty: taking away or locking up a person) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Människorov, less gross (abduction, less gross) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 6 years
Människorov (abduction: seizing and taking away or locking up a person to harm them, to force them to work, or to extort) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 4 years (a fixed term of 4 to 18 years)
- Most
- Life imprisonment (livstid)
Switzerland
Up to 5 years or a fine (Freiheitsberaubung) up to life (hostage-taking in the gravest cases)
Show the degrees and the articles
Freiheitsberaubung und Entführung (unlawfully arresting or holding a person, or abducting them) (Vergehen (misdemeanour: up to 3 years or a fine))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- A fine (Geldstrafe) may be imposed instead of prison
The same where a person who cannot judge or resist, or is under 16, is abducted.
Qualifizierte Freiheitsberaubung (to obtain a ransom, with cruel treatment, lasting more than ten days, or seriously endangering the victim's health) (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
Geiselnahme (hostage-taking: depriving a person of liberty to compel a third party to act, omit or endure) (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
At least 3 years if the offender threatens to kill, seriously injure or treat the victim cruelly. Life imprisonment is possible in especially grave cases, namely where many people are affected.
Taiwan
Up to 5 years (deprivation of liberty); life or at least 7 years (kidnapping for ransom)
Show the degrees and the articles
Unlawful detention or deprivation of freedom of movement (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- Or detention, or a fine of up to NT$9,000
Deprivation of freedom of movement in aggravated forms (three or more persons, a weapon, a person with disabilities, torment, or seven days or more) (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to NT$1,000,000 may be added
Kidnapping for ransom (擄人勒贖) (Offence)
- Least
- 7 years (the alternative is life)
- Most
- Life imprisonment
Kidnapping for ransom causing death (Offence)
- Least
- 12 years (the alternatives are death or life imprisonment)
- Most
- Death
Turkey
1 to 5 years (depriving a person of liberty) up to 2 to 7 years with force or deceit, doubled in the aggravated cases
Show the degrees and the articles
Kişiyi hürriyetinden yoksun kılma (unlawfully depriving a person of the freedom to go or stay) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 5 years
The same, using force, threat or deceit (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 7 years
The same, with a weapon, by several people, by a public official, against a child or a defenceless person, and the other cases of art. 109(3) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- The penalty above, increased by one fold (so up to 14 years)
Where the act causes the victim a significant economic loss, a fine of up to a thousand days is added.
Other states and countries are being added. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
