Criminal Threats
There are several forms of threats that can lead to criminal charges. Although the threatened actions may not have been taken or people were not ultimately hurt, this action may still be considered a crime. Because of the difficult nature of proving threats, often times defense strategies successfully overturn or reduce a charge. Proving a lack of intent or degree of intent can change the final punishment of a threat accusation. The following are common forms of threats that result in criminal charges:
- Bomb Threats- Bomb threats are often made as part of pranks, or simply to give someone a scare. Every threat is taken seriously, despite the fact many of these threats have proven to be false alarms.
- Death Threats – Threatening somebody’s life can have serious repercussions in the court room. Jail time may be assigned to those convicted of the crime.
- Property damage or theft – Threatening to damage cars, homes, or other property or taking belongings may be considered a criminal activity.
- Physical abuse – Domestic violence charges are often times related to the presence of threats. It is a form of emotional abuse and can be damaging to the psyche of an individual.
Courts will take several items into account when deciding on a sentence for this offense. The first is how much harm was intended. A death threat will have more severe consequences than a threat of property damage. They will also take into account the circumstances of the offense. Sometimes threats are made with the intention of joking or humor. Although it clearly isn’t funny, the courts may take these circumstances into consideration.
If you are looking for more information on defense against threat charges, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
