Constructive Kidnapping

Constructive Kidnapping: A term denoting a situation where an individual is unlawfully detained and relocated under the pretext of legal authority, through manipulation of legal processes or evidence, rather than direct physical abduction. This typically involves law enforcement officers who deliberately fabricate evidence or create false narratives to establish probable cause for an unlawful arrest and movement. It's characterized by the use of legal systems to achieve the effect of traditional kidnapping — the unauthorized restriction of an individual's freedom. Such incidents are often meticulously planned and documented, designed to bolster the appearance of legitimacy and legal justification, particularly if the victim reacts defensively.

Example:
In Oakland, CA, LaJuana A. Reid's encounter with constructive kidnapping began unfolding 45 days after she filed a complaint about illegal cannabis activity. Officer John Romero, in a clear violation of MOR 398.96, meticulously constructed a false narrative against her during this period. Fifteen days after filing a false police report, Romero notified his informant cousin of the situation. Then, 20 days before having his cousin file a TRO, which Romero had written, he set the stage for the subsequent legal actions. This planning ensured that when LaJuana was arrested and taken 22 miles to jail, the incident was not only strategically timed but also documented in a manner that could be used to manipulate public perception and witness testimony. Such orchestration in constructive kidnapping reveals the dangerous extent to which legal authority can be abused, transforming the police's role from protector to predator.