The criminal liability under color of law for depriving rights is found in which statute?

• A. Sec. 241
• B. Sec. 242
• C. 1983
• D. 1988

Answer: (B)

Criminal liability under color of law for depriving rights is found in 18 U.S.C. § 242. This statute makes it a crime for someone acting under color of law to willfully deprive a person of rights protected by the Constitution or federal laws. The “color of law” element means the offender is using government authority or powers, not merely private action. The requirement of “willfully” means intentional deprivation, not accidental or negligent conduct.

This is a criminal statute, distinct from 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which provides a civil remedy for rights violations by state actors. The conspiracy provision (Sec. 241) involves two or more people plotting to deprive rights and is a separate offense. The Civil Rights Restoration Act (1988) relates to civil procedures and costs, not criminal liability. So the correct statute is 18 U.S.C. § 242.