Kidnapped

Kidnapped is the past tense of kidnap, meaning that a person has been unlawfully abducted or carried away by force, threat, deception, or other coercive means, typically against the person’s will and without lawful authority. The aim can vary, including ransom, exploitation, political leverage, or detention.

Legal definitions vary by jurisdiction, but most criminal codes require the unlawful taking and carrying away of a person, without consent, with intent to detain or restrain. Movement of the person is often part of the crime. Some systems distinguish kidnapping from related offenses such as false imprisonment, unlawful restraint, or abduction; many place heightened penalties for kidnapping of a child or when weapons, injuries, or negotiations for ransom are involved. In many countries, kidnapping is a serious felonious offense prosecuted under criminal law.

Kidnapping can involve adults or minors. It may occur in domestic contexts, as well as in abductions for ransom, extortion, labor trafficking, sexual exploitation, or political motives. Victims may experience physical harm, coercion, or long-term psychological trauma, and rescue or return often requires law enforcement investigation, emergency response, and victim support.

Prevention relies on public safety measures, rapid reporting, and international cooperation in cases of cross-border abduction. Media reporting guidelines stress accuracy and sensitivity to victims.

Origin: the term kidnap entered English in the 17th century; the exact origin is uncertain. The form kidnapped is the past participle used to describe the action once completed.