kidnapper

A kidnapper is a person who abducts or takes away another person against that person’s will, by force, threat, deceit, or other coercion. Kidnapping is a criminal act in most jurisdictions, and the individual who commits it is referred to as the kidnapper.

Legal definitions vary by country, but most systems require unlawful confinement of a person without consent, with an intent to detain or transport the victim. Aggravated forms may involve ransom requests, hostage-taking, or exploitation, and penalties commonly include lengthy imprisonment, fines, or both. In some places, kidnapping is distinguished from related offenses such as false imprisonment or abduction.

Motives for kidnapping include obtaining ransom, coercing political or criminal objectives, facilitating human trafficking, sexual exploitation, forced labor, or coercing family or business decisions. Methods range from deception and false pretenses to threats, violence, or the use of weapons, and a kidnapper may act alone or with accomplices. Victims may be adults or children.

Investigation and response involve law enforcement tracing movements, securing sites, recovering victims, and prosecuting the offender. Support services for victims and families are commonly available. Penalties and restitution depend on jurisdiction and the specifics of the case, including abduction duration, harm caused, and prior record.

The term originated in historical English law and is now used for abductions across ages. International instruments address cross-border kidnapping and related trafficking through cooperation and extradition.