Bribery of a Public Servant Under ARS 13-2602
News Article
In recent years, there has been increasing attention on the issue of public corruption and the need to hold public officials accountable for their actions. Bribery is one such offense that has come under scrutiny, and it is a criminal charge that carries significant penalties.
Understanding Arizona Revised Statute 13-2602
Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 13-2602 outlines the offense of bribery of a public servant. Specifically, the statute prohibits anyone from offering, promising, or giving any benefit, whether directly or indirectly, to a public servant with the intent to influence the performance of an official act.
Under the statute, a public servant refers to any officer or employee of the state, a political subdivision of the state, or any other entity that receives public funds or is supported in whole or in part by public funds. This includes elected officials, law enforcement officers, and other government employees.
Who is Considered a Public Servant or Party Officer?
The definition of a public servant or party officer encompasses a wide range of individuals who hold positions of authority or influence within the government or political organizations. In addition to elected officials and law enforcement officers, public servants can include judges, prosecutors, and other court personnel, as well as members of regulatory boards and commissions.
What Actions Could Be Considered Bribery?
Offering, promising, or giving any benefit to a public servant with the intent to influence the performance of an official act is the most obvious form of bribery. However, the offense can also include indirect acts or omissions that are intended to influence an official act, such as withholding information, providing false information, or taking actions that could harm the public servant or their family.
What is Commercial Bribery?
Commercial bribery is a related offense that occurs when someone offers a benefit to an employee or agent of a private company with the intent to gain a business advantage. Like bribery of a public servant, commercial bribery is a criminal offense that can result in significant penalties for those involved.
Can Bribery Be a Federal Offense?
Bribery can also be a federal offense under certain circumstances. For example, offering or accepting a bribe in connection with a federally funded program or activity is prohibited under federal law, as is payment of a bribe to a foreign official in order to obtain a business advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bribery Charges
If you have been charged with bribery of a public servant or commercial bribery, you may have questions about the criminal justice process and your legal options. Some common questions include:
- What are the penalties for a bribery conviction?
- Can I plea bargain a bribery charge?
- How can I defend against a bribery charge?
- What should I do if I am approached about a bribe?
Contact a Federal Defense Attorney from Kolsrud Law
If you are facing bribery charges at the state or federal level, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can help protect your rights and fight for your freedom. The team at Kolsrud Law has extensive experience defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges, and we can provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.
Don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a member of our team and learn more about how we can help you.
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