Classification 88: Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution

The Unlawful Flight Statute was enacted in 1934 to assist localities and states in their efforts to regain fugitives. The FBI was given primary investigative responsibility for fugitives connected with criminal charges such as murder, kidnapping, burglary, robbery, rape, assault with a dangerous weapon, extortion accompanied by threats of violence, and attempts to commit the above mention crimes. The area of investigation in this classification was expanded by the Civil Rights Act of 1960, which made it unlawful to flee across state lines to avoid arrest for damaging or attempting to damage by fire or explosive, any dwelling, church, vehicle, or educational institution. Another major change in 1961 expanded this classification further when all state crimes that were also felonies became covered by this classification. This last change resulted in a large increase in case openings.

NARA holdings for Classification 88: Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution

The following records under Classification 88: Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution are not yet described in NARA's online catalog. Please contact NARA's Special Access Program at specialaccess_FOIA@nara.gov with your reference request.

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