What does 18 U.S.C. 242 criminalize?

• A. Theft
• B. Deprivation of rights under color of law
• C. Attempted murder
• D. Obstruction of justice

Answer: (B)

Deprivation of rights under color of law is a federal crime that punishes a government official who willfully uses official authority to deprive a person of rights protected by the Constitution or federal law. “Under color of law” means the official is acting in an official capacity or claiming to exercise government power, even if the actions are unlawful. The crucial idea is intent plus official authority: the act isn’t about stealing property, murder, or simply obstructing a court; it’s about willfully denying someone rights guaranteed by the Constitution or federal statutes while acting as a government actor. This covers a broad range of rights, including due process, equal protection, and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, among others. It’s distinct from offenses like theft, attempted murder, or obstruction of justice, which are governed by different laws and elements.