There are many different classifications of crimes. One of the main ways crimes are classified is the distinction between misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are more serious charges that typically mean a person can be sentenced to more than one year in prison if found guilty, whereas misdemeanors carry penalties of under one year in jail. Many people may think only violent crimes or those involving lots of money fall into the felony category, but this is not true. In Oregon, felonies are varied and can include lesser criminal activity.
In one recent case a man was charged with a Class B felony after a traffic stop. Authorities claim that the man was pulled over by a police officer for failing to stop at a stop sign. After the officer approached the car, the man apparently offered the officer money in exchange for not receiving a ticket, police said. No money was shown during the conversation, according to the officer, but the man was warned that the conversation was being recorded.
The officer, who refused the driver's offer, said he wrote the man a ticket and the man was released. The officer then reported the incident to his supervisor. Police say that the next day they went and arrested the man. The man was charged with the felony of bribe giving.
While the exact dollar amount the man allegedly offered is unknown, police have said it was less than $260, the fine associated with ignoring a stop sign. This is not the amount of money that most people would think qualifies for felony treatment. However, under Oregon law, this man could now face serious penalties if prosecutors continue with the case.
Source: KBOI2, "Police: Ore. driver tried to bribe officer to avoid a ticket," Nov. 15, 2012
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