One area of criminal defense involves defending allegations of crimes against people. False Imprisonment, kidnapping, and similar crimes are alleged on a regular basis in the Fresno County courts.
PC 237 Punishment
(a) False Imprisonment is punishable by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment. If the false imprisonment be effected by violence, menace, fraud, or deceit, ti shall be punishable by imprisonment pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1170.
(b) False imprisonment of an elder or dependent adult by use of violence, menace, fraud, or deceit shall be punishable as described in subdivision (f) of Section 368.
The criminal allegation of False Imprisonment can lead to serious consequences. A felony conviction of False imprisonment for a term of up to 3 years. A conviction under this section may have serious consequence on your future, your right to bear arms, and your right to vote.
The Elements of this crime are:
1. Defendant unlawfully violated the personal liberty of another person.
2. The defendant's act of offense was against he victim's will.
If you have been accused or believe you may be accused of violating this section of the Penal Code you should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney and/or law firm to assist you with your criminal defense matters.