Bribery and Public Officials

Many Americans like to view their government representatives as honest and attentive to the needs of the public. Fortunately, most of them are honest workers who earn this trust. However, as with all types of career, there are some workers in the public sector who are not suited to the job. For example, trusted government representatives are sometimes charged with accepting bribes that influence their political choices.

There are different ways a bribe can be handled. First, the bribe can either be solicited by the official or can be offered by the individual who means to gain something from the official. After this initial step, the official can accept or deny the bribe. If he or she accepts, then he or she can be tried for bribery.

Bribes are intended to benefit both parties. Once an individual gives the public official a benefit, he or she has influence over how the official votes within the legislative system. This negates the truth in voting on issues. Public servants also violate the law when they accept a gift from someone who is under his or her custody or someone that can benefit from his or her authority as a public servant.

Of course, not everyone who is accused of accepting bribes is guilty. It is possible for an innocent arrangement to be misunderstood, or even for charges to be completely fabricated. Anyone who has been accused of accepting or offering bribes needs to discuss his or her options with a qualified West Virginia bribery defense attorney.

Contact Us

West Virginia takes illegal lobbying and bribes seriously. If you or someone you know has been charged with bribery, contact the Clarksburg criminal defense attorney at the Law Office of David W. Frame at 800-352-9460 to discuss your rights.