2025 Session Last amended: 2023 session

§ 609.25 — Kidnapping

Plain-Language Summary

Kidnapping means confining or moving someone without their consent for purposes like holding them for ransom, helping commit a felony, causing great bodily harm, terrorizing them, or holding them in forced labor. If the victim is released safely, the penalty is up to 20 years in prison. If the victim is not released safely, is seriously hurt, or is under 16, the penalty is up to 40 years.

Practical Notes
Kidnapping is one of the most serious crimes in Minnesota. Taking a child under 16 automatically triggers the higher penalty range. A person can be charged with kidnapping and any other crimes committed during the kidnapping at the same time, even though double jeopardy rules normally prevent that.