Treason- what is it?

 treason

Treason

 is the crime of betraying one's country or sovereign by acts considered dangerous to security. 

In the United States, treason is specifically defined in Article III, Section 3 of the Constitution: 

• It consists only in levying war against the United States, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort.
• To be convicted, there must be two witnesses to the same overt act, or a confession in open court. 

Key Aspects of Treason in the US:

• "Levying War": This involves assembling people for the purpose of overthrowing the government or resisting its laws by force. It requires open action, not just a conspiracy.
• "Adhering to Enemies, Giving Aid and Comfort": This means joining or providing assistance to countries or organizations at war with the United States. This aid must be intentional and more than just "casually useful".
• Proof Requirements: The Constitution's strict requirement for two witnesses to the same overt act or a confession in open court makes treason difficult to prove.
• Punishment: The federal punishment for treason can include death, imprisonment for at least five years, and a fine of at least $10,000. Additionally, a convicted person is barred from holding any office under the United States.
• Dual Allegiance: US citizens owe allegiance to the US wherever they reside, including dual citizens.
• Historical Context: The Framers of the Constitution narrowly defined treason to prevent it from being used to suppress political dissent. 

Note: While rarely prosecuted in the US, other federal crimes related to treason, such as seditious conspiracy or providing material support to terrorism, exist and are more frequently charged.