Threatening To Kill?

[daisya]

Is it a criminal offence or illegal to threaten to kill someone?

[ummmm]

Yes.

[ChillDoubt]

Indeed it is. It is also an arrestable offence.

[Orderlimit]

Yes, http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Vict/24-25/100/section/16


Will get a better link

[WyeDyed]

As I understand it, if the person threatened has a "reasonable belief" that they are under threat, then an offence has been committed.

[ummmm]

http://www.cps.gov.uk/legal/s_to_u/sentencing_manual/threats_to_kill/

[Orderlimit]

Threats to kill, contrary to section 16 Offences against the Person Act 1861
Threats can be calculated and premeditated, or said in the heat of the moment. The defendant does not have to have the intention to kill but there has to be an intent that the person to whom the threat has been issued would fear it would be carried out. This can be a difficult offence to prove, and it should be reserved for the more serious cases. Where it is doubtful whether the threat carried the necessary intent a charge under Section 4 Public Order Act 1986 may be appropriate

[daisya]

Thanks so much for your answers and swift response.

[society]

Has someone threatened you?

[daisya]

No society thank goodness, I was witness to someone making threats to another person today (I was sitting in my car and an argument took place next to it). Because it was a heated argument I wondered if the threats were an offence.

[society]

Ok, glad none threatened you.

[daisya]

Thanks society x