What Constitutes a Terroristic Threat?
When people hear “terroristic threat” they may automatically think of world terrorism. However, a terroristic threat extends farther than that.
Under the Pennsylvania’s Crimes Code a terrorist threat occurs when:
“A person communicates, either directly or indirectly, a threat to:
- commit any crime of violence with intent to terrorize another;
- cause evacuation of a building, place of assembly or facility of public transportation; or
- otherwise cause serious public inconvenience, or cause terror or serious public inconvenience” Title 18 § Pa. Code § 2706 (a) (2019).
What is the Grading of a Terroristic Threat?
A terroristic threat is usually graded as a misdemeanor of the first degree. A terroristic threat can be a graded as a felony of the third degree when the threat, “causes occupants of the building, place of assembly or facility of public transportation to be diverted from their normal or customary operations.” Title 18 § Pa. Code § 2706 (d) (2019).
Examples of Terroristic Threats
A terroristic threat can be communicated, “in person or by written or electronic means, including telephone, electronic mail, Internet, facsimile, telex and similar transmissions.” Title 18 § Pa. Code § 2706 (e) (2019). Thus, someone could be charged with terroristic threats if they threatened to hurt someone on social medial. Another example, would be telling someone you are going to kill them or hurt them; this could include brandishing a weapon, such as a gun, or it could be words alone. A bomb threat would constitute a terroristic threat because the intent is to cause terror and most likely would cause a building to be evacuated.
How can the Law Office of Vincent J. Caputo Help?
If you or a loved one is charged with terroristic threats, call the Law Office of Vincent J. Caputo. Understanding your charges is confusing and frustrating. The experienced attorneys at the Law Office of Vincent J. Caputo will explain your charges in a way you can understand and outline your best course of action. We are dedicated to making your voices heard. Contact our office for a free consultation.
