These days all the talk seems to be about politics, and alleged bribery has recently been uncovered in several political circles. In 2017, for example, the federal government indicted the former Waste Management Company CEO and two others on several bribery and fraud charges in relation to alleged incidents that were uncovered throughout Macomb County and St. Clair County. The definition of bribery, however, isn’t as clear as it may seem.
For instance, does it matter how much money is involved? Does it always have to involve money at all? Do you have to be a political figure? What does bribery really mean anyway?
Definition of Bribery
The Legal Dictionary’s definition of bribery is as follows:
“The offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of something of value for the purpose of influencing the action of an official in the discharge of his or her public or legal duties.”
The Business Dictionary similarly defines it as “the act of taking or receiving something with the intention of influencing the recipient in some way favorable to the party providing the bribe.”
The expectation of a specific action in return is what makes the difference between a bribe and a donation. A bribe can involve cash, favors, or anything else of value, according to the Legal Dictionary.
It is generally considered illegal, and all states have various laws against it in order to prevent corruption. The burden of proof remains with the prosecuting attorney based on information obtained through intricate investigations.
Possible Charges and Penalties for Bribery
Bribery can be considered a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the particular factors of each case.
A felony is punishable by more than one year in prison, and a misdemeanor is punishable by less than one year in jail.
The fines and other expenses related to a guilty verdict in a felonious bribery case vary greatly. However, they are often astronomical figures ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.
In addition to jail time and fines, the person found guilty of bribery may face a variety of other consequences. They may include job loss, loss of respect, and the inability to obtain similar jobs in the future.
Contact Us for More Information
This is only the very basic definition of bribery, as there are many more factors involved. If someone you know has been charged with bribery, he or she likely has a long road ahead and needs help.
Contact an attorney and one of our Port Huron bail bond agents for more information and assistance. We can be reached through our website, by phone at (810) 605-5555, or by email at info@bailbondsporthuron.com.
