Legal Definitions - bribe

A bribe is an offer or exchange of something valuable—such as money, a gift, a favor, or a reward—given or promised with the specific intention of improperly influencing the actions or decisions of someone who holds a position of trust or public duty. The goal is to corrupt their judgment or cause them to act in a way that benefits the briber, rather than fulfilling their responsibilities fairly, impartially, and according to the law.

• Example 1: Influencing a Zoning Decision

  A real estate developer, eager to build a large commercial complex in a residential area, offers a significant sum of money to a local city council member. The developer hopes this payment will persuade the council member to vote in favor of re-zoning the land, despite strong community opposition and potential negative environmental impacts.

  This illustrates a bribe because the money is the "reward" offered to the council member, who is in a "position of trust" with a "public duty" to represent their constituents fairly. The developer's intent is to "improperly influence" the council member's vote, causing them to prioritize personal gain over their duty to the community and impartial decision-making.

• Example 2: Evading Traffic Penalties

  After being pulled over for a serious speeding violation, a driver discreetly hands the police officer a folded hundred-dollar bill along with their license and registration. The driver then says, "Perhaps we can just forget about this, officer?"

  Here, the hundred-dollar bill is the "gift" or "price" offered. The police officer is in a "position of trust" with the "public duty" to enforce traffic laws. The driver's action is an attempt to "pervert the judgment" of the officer, influencing them to neglect their duty and allow the driver to avoid legal consequences for the violation.

• Example 3: Securing a Government Contract

  An international technology company, seeking a lucrative contract to provide new software to a government agency, arranges for the agency's procurement director to receive an all-expenses-paid luxury vacation for their entire family. The trip is offered just before the final decision on the contract is due.

  This scenario demonstrates a bribe because the luxury vacation is a "favor" or "reward" offered to the procurement director. The director holds a "position of trust" and has a "public duty" to ensure government contracts are awarded fairly and based on merit. The company's intention is to "improperly influence" the director's decision, ensuring their company wins the contract regardless of whether it's the best or most cost-effective option for the public.