Obstruction of justice refers to actions by individuals that illegally prevent or influence the outcome of a government proceeding. It can take many forms, including tampering with evidence, intimidating witnesses, and attempting to influence or intimidate jurors or court officers. Obstruction of justice is a crime that can be charged at both the federal and state levels, and the laws on obstruction of justice are located in multiple federal and state statutes.

To prove obstruction of justice, the prosecution must establish that the defendant knew of a government proceeding and acted with the intent to interfere with the proceeding. The punishment for obstruction of justice varies depending on the specific offense and the jurisdiction, but it can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class F felony.

Here are some examples of obstruction of justice offenses and their corresponding punishments:

• Destroying, altering, or concealing evidence relevant to an ongoing investigation or legal proceeding is considered an obstruction of justice. This offense is often charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
• Attempting to influence or intimidate jurors or court officers through harassment, intimidation, or communication is considered an obstruction of justice. This crime is a Class H felony.
• Willfully and unlawfully resisting, delaying, or obstructing a public officer in discharging or attempting to discharge an official duty, and the resistance, delay, or obstruction is the proximate cause of a public officers serious bodily injury, is considered an obstruction of justice. This offense is a Class F felony.

It is important to note that multiple elements must be proven for someone to be convicted of obstructing justice, including intent and knowledge. Prosecutors need to prove that someone accused of obstructing justice did so intentionally and with knowledge.