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CRM 1500-1999

1540. Attempting To Kill Or Kidnap The President -- 18 U.S.C. 1751

Section 1751(c) of Title 18 proscribes attempts to kill or kidnap any individual designated in § 1751(a). The crime of attempt is punishable by imprisonment for any term of years or for life. For cases applying the various concept of criminal attempts, see United States v. Robles, 185 F. Supp. 82 (N.D. Cal. 1960) and United States v. DeBolt, 253 F. 78 (S.D. Ohio 1918). An evolution in the doctrine of attempt is suggested by comparing Robles, supra, with United States v. Stephens, 12 Fed. 52 (C.C.D. Ore. 1882).

For cases applying the dangerous proximity doctrine, see United States v. Coplon, 185 F.2d 629 (2d Cir. 1950); Gregg v. United States, 113 F.2d 687 (8th Cir. 1940); and United States v. Duane, 66 F. Supp. 459 (D. Neb. 1946).

[cited in Criminal Resource Manual 1606; JM 9-65.300]