Section 201 of Title 18 is entitled "Bribery of public officials and witnesses." The statute comprises two distinct offenses, however, in common parlance only the first, codified in section 201(b) of the statute, is true "bribery." The second offense, codified in section 201(c), concerns what are commonly known as "gratuities," although that word does not appear anywhere in the statute. Due to this distinction, government attorneys should take particular care and should not hesitate to consult with the Public Integrity Section of the Criminal Division.

[updated January 2020]