Virginia Code § 18.2-47 defines abduction and kidnapping, including acts involving force, intimidation, or deception to seize or detain a person. It also covers forced labor and related offenses, specifying punishments based on the circumstances, especially involving minors or family members. The law excludes law enforcement actions performed in the line of duty.
Abduction involves forcibly, intimidately, or deceptively seizing, taking, or detaining someone to deprive them of their personal liberty or to conceal them from authorities.
Kidnapping of a minor is generally a Class 2 felony, with other abduction offenses punishable as a Class 5 felony, depending on circumstances.
No, the provisions do not apply to law enforcement officers performing their official duties.
Yes, if a parent or household member with custody or visitation orders commits abduction, it may be punishable as a contempt of court or a felony, depending on the case.