Michigan law prohibiting interference with witnesses in criminal or civil proceedings.
Full Text
750.120a Interfering with witness; felony.
Sec. 120a.
(1) A person shall not do any of the following by threat or intimidation:
(a) Discourage or attempt to discourage any individual from attending a present or future official proceeding as a witness, testifying at a present or future official proceeding, or giving information at a present or future official proceeding.
(b) Influence or attempt to influence testimony at a present or future official proceeding.
(c) Encourage or attempt to encourage any individual to avoid legal process, to withhold testimony, or to testify falsely in a present or future official proceeding.
(2) A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 10 years or a fine of not more than $20,000.00, or both.
Elements of the Offense
- Threat or intimidation directed at a witness
- Intent to discourage attendance, influence testimony, or encourage false testimony
- Relates to a present or future official proceeding
Penalties
- Up to 10 years imprisonment
- Fine up to $20,000
- Or both
This is a felony offense under Michigan law.
Relevance
This statute applies when:
- Officials discourage subordinates from cooperating with investigations
- Witnesses are pressured to change or withhold testimony
- Retaliation occurs against those who provide information
- Employees are threatened for participating in proceedings