TCA 39-16-604
Compounding of offenses
MISDEMEANOR AClass A Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
It is illegal to accept money or favors in exchange for not reporting a crime to police, or for a crime victim to accept payment in exchange for dropping charges against someone. Violations involving misdemeanor crimes are Class A misdemeanors (up to 11 months 29 days in jail and $2,500 fine), while violations involving felony crimes are Class E felonies (harsher penalties). A legitimate exception exists if a victim accepts only reasonable restitution or compensation for actual losses.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail11 months 29 days
Maximum Fine$2,500
Penalty SummaryClass A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500
Enhancement NotesBase: Class A misdemeanor. Enhanced to: Class E felony, Class E felony
(a) It is unlawful for any person to solicit, accept or agree to accept any benefit in consideration of refraining from reporting to a law enforcement officer the commission or suspected commission of an offense. (b) It is unlawful for a complaining witness to solicit, accept or agree to accept any benefit in consideration of abstaining from, discontinuing or delaying the prosecution of another for an offense. (c) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the benefit was solicited or accepted by the victim and did not exceed an amount reasonably believed by the victim to be due as restitution or indemnification for loss caused by the offense. (d) (1) A violation of this section with respect to an offense classified as a misdemeanor is a Class A misdemeanor. (2) A violation of this section with respect to an offense classified as a felony is a Class E felony.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR A
TCA Section39-16-604
Max Jail11 months 29 days
Max Fine$2,500