False imprisonment accusations are very serious and can lead to severe punishment, such as jail time and hefty fines. But anyone accused of false imprisonment in Pennsylvania needs to know that, in some cases, false imprisonment charges can also lead to domestic violence charges. This raises the stakes significantly for anyone who is accused of false imprisonment in Pennsylvania.

What Is False Imprisonment?

In Pennsylvania, false imprisonment is the act of knowingly and unlawfully restraining another person against their will in a way that substantially interferes with their liberty. The crime is generally a second-degree misdemeanor that carries a sentence of one to two years in prison and a fine of up to $5000.

False imprisonment of a minor by an adult who is not the victim's parent constitutes a second-degree felony, as does false imprisonment of a minor by an adult who is the victim's parent.

The term “parent” is interpreted broadly under the law and includes biological parents, adoptive parents, guardians, and stepparents.

How False Imprisonment Can Lead to Domestic Violence Charges in Pennsylvania

Like many other states, Pennsylvania takes domestic violence very seriously. False imprisonment is one of the many acts that can constitute domestic violence under Pennsylvania law.

In Pennsylvania, whether an act constitutes domestic violence depends on the relationship between the parties. Specifically, the determination turns on whether the act occurred between family and household members. Pennsylvania broadly defines “family” and “household” relationships and can include:

• Parents and children.
• Spouses or former spouses.
• Domestic partnerships and cohabiting arrangements.
• Blood relatives.
• In-laws.
• Biological parents of a child.
• Sexual partners (including former partners).

How False Imprisonment Can Become Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania

There are many factual scenarios in which false imprisonment can rise to the level of domestic violence in Pennsylvania. For example:

• A boyfriend stands in front of a doorway and doesn't allow his girlfriend to leave.
• A stepfather locks his stepson in a bedroom without the stepson's consent or permission.
• An ex-husband threatens to harm his ex-wife if she leaves the house.

In each of these examples, false imprisonment would likely be considered domestic violence under Pennsylvania law because of the relationship of the parties involved.

The LLF Law Firm Can Help Anyone Facing False Imprisonment or Domestic Violence Charges

Anyone who has been accused of false imprisonment in Pennsylvania needs to protect themselves against the potential serious consequences of those charges and the added threat of additional domestic violence charges.

The LLF Law Firm's experienced Criminal Defense Team has been successfully defending clients in false imprisonment and domestic violence cases throughout Pennsylvania for many years. We can assess your case and vigorously defend your rights in order to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Contact the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit a confidential online consultation form.