The crime of treason is defined in the U.S. Code, the official compilation of all general and permanent federal laws enacted by the U.S. Congress through the legislative process. "Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States." Treason in the Constitution The U.S. Constitution also defines treason. In fact, defying the United States with an act of severe sedition by a traitor is the only crime spelled out in the document. Treason is defined in Article III, Section III of the Constitution: "Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court. "The Congress shall have Power to declare the Punishment of Treason, but no Attainder of Treason shall work Corruption of Blood, or Forfeiture except during the Life of the Person attainted." The Constitution also requires the removal of the president, vice president and all of their offices if convicted of treason or other acts of sedition that constitute "high crimes and misdemeanors." No president in U.S. history has been impeached for treason.
Posted on: Sun, 07 Jul 2013 01:49:16 +0000
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