§2332h Radiological Dispersal Devices

Summary

It is illegal to knowingly make, get, sell, receive, hold, bring in or send out, use, or threaten to use any weapon or device meant to release radiation at levels dangerous to human life. The rule does not apply to actions by the United States government or to work done under a contract with the U.S. government. The United States can charge someone for these acts when the crime affects interstate or foreign trade, happens outside the U.S. by a U.S. citizen, is done to a U.S. citizen abroad, targets U.S. property anywhere, or involves helping or planning with someone who is covered by those rules. Trying or planning to commit these crimes is also illegal. A conviction can bring a fine up to $2,000,000 and at least 25 years in prison or life. If the person uses or threatens to use the device during the crime, the minimum is 30 years or life. If someone dies because of the crime, the punishment is a fine up to $2,000,000 and life in prison.