Criminal Justice (Courts)

The "Kidnapping Amendment Act of 2025" (Bill B 26-0203) updates Washington D.C.'s kidnapping statute to close gaps identified by a 2024 court ruling. It defines "substantial confinement or movement" as moving someone 20+ feet or confining them for 10+ minutes, ensuring short-duration incidents (like a 20-minute vehicle transport) qualify as kidnapping. The bill expands second-degree kidnapping to cover intent to commit any crime (not just felonies), creates a new misdemeanor offense for less severe restraints (up to 180 days), and clarifies jury requirements for intent. These changes directly affect individuals committing kidnapping or restraint offenses and victims in such incidents across the District.