Virginia · Code of Virginia — Title 18.2, Crimes and Offenses

Va. Code (Crimes) § 18.2-47: Abduction and kidnapping defined; forced labor; punishment

Felony

What this law says, in plain English

The statute defines abduction (kidnapping) as seizing, transporting, or detaining another person by force, intimidation, or deception to deprive them of liberty or withhold them from lawful authorities. Abduction of minors is a Class 2 felony; other abductions are Class 5 felonies, except certain parental custody violations which may be Class 1 misdemeanors or Class 6 felonies.

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.