Bringing Down Bribery In Official And Political Matters

Anyone who’s enjoyed a good crime flick or mystery movie knows that Hollywood has a knack for dramatizing bribery; what you may not know is just how real and dangerous actual bribery is. The silver screen may embellish, but bribery in official and political matters is a clear and present danger. Today’s post will feature the next installment of our series on white collar crime, focusing on New Jersey statute 2C:27-2 – bribery in official and political matters, and the legal consequences for offenders.

New Jersey Statute 2C:27-2 – Bribery In Official And Political Matters

The following, a direct excerpt from New Jersey Statute 2C:27-2, states that:

“A person is guilty of bribery if he directly or indirectly offers, confers or agrees to confer upon another, or solicits, accepts or agrees to accept from another:

a. Any benefit as consideration for a decision, opinion, recommendation, vote or exercise of discretion of a public servant, party official or voter on any public issue or in any public election; or

b. Any benefit as consideration for a decision, vote, recommendation or exercise of official discretion in a judicial or administrative proceeding; or

c. Any benefit as consideration for a violation of an official duty of a public servant or party official; or

d. Any benefit as consideration for the performance of official duties.

For the purposes of this section “benefit as consideration” shall be deemed to mean any benefit not authorized by law.”

Excerpt from N.J.S. § 2C:27-2

Biproducts of Bribery

The crime of bribing officials and political figures may seem insignificant compared to more obviously heinous crimes. The truth, however, is that bribery of powerful people can have untold real-world consequences that dwarf isolated acts of violence. Bribery often results in financially incentivized sentence reductions for violent criminals and the passing of corrupt policies, both of which can have ruinous ramifications.

New Jersey’s Response To Bribery 

The state of New Jersey takes bribery very seriously. The punishment for bribery correlates to the size of the offering or exchange, and offenders can be charged with anything from a 2nd degree crime to a 4th degree crime. For an idea of the severity of sentencing, 2nd degree crimes are punishable by 5-10 years in prison and a fine up to $150,000, while 4th degree crimes carry a sentence of up to 18 months in prison, with a fine of up to $10,000. Not exactly a walk in the park.

Your Defense For Bribery In Official and Political Matters

As stated in previous entries, Mark Catanzaro defends all manner of white collar crimes, including bribery. If you’re facing allegations of bribery, there can be no question; you need a defense attorney. To request help, simply follow the link, call ​​609-261-3400 or email Mark@CatanzaroLaw.com with the nature of your legal predicament.