by Attorney Eric D. PuryearThe Iowa crime of Bribery is defined in Iowa Code Section 722.1 as follows:
A person who offers, promises, or gives anything of value or any benefit to a person who is serving or has been elected, selected, appointed, employed, or otherwise engaged to serve in a public capacity, including a public officer or employee, a referee, juror, or jury panel member, or a witness in a judicial or arbitration hearing or any official inquiry, or a member of a board of arbitration, pursuant to an agreement or arrangement or with the understanding that the promise or thing of value or benefit will influence the act, vote, opinion, judgment, decision, or exercise of discretion of the person with respect to the person’s services in that capacity commits a class “D” felony. In addition, a person convicted under this section is disqualified from holding public office under the laws of this state.
A bribery conviction in Iowa can result in a 5 year prison sentence. In addition, anyone convicted of bribery in Iowa is barred from holding a public office in Iowa.
Anyone who is accused of bribery in Iowa is well advised to remain silent and seek an attorney at once, as properly handling the case is vital.