What is accessory after the fact?

Accessory after the fact is a criminal charge that refers to a person who assists someone who has committed a crime, knowing that the person has committed the crime, in order to help them avoid getting caught or punished. This assistance can include hiding the person, providing them with money or transportation, destroying evidence, or making false statements to the authorities.

Accessory after the fact is considered a separate offense from the actual crime that was committed, and can result in criminal charges and penalties for the individual who helped the perpetrator. The severity of the charges and penalties for accessory after the fact can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the laws in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred.

In some cases, a person may be charged as an accessory after the fact if they were not directly involved in the commission of the crime but knowingly assisted the perpetrator after the fact. It is important to note that there is a legal obligation for individuals to report crimes and not obstruct justice, and failing to do so can result in criminal charges for being an accessory after the fact.

Overall, accessory after the fact is a serious criminal offense that can result in legal consequences for those who assist others in avoiding accountability for their criminal actions.