What is the potential penalty under 18 U.S.C. §§241 and 242?

The potential penalty under 18 U.S.C. §§241 and 242 encompasses a wide range of consequences, reflecting the severity of civil rights violations. Section 241 addresses conspiracies against rights, while Section 242 focuses on deprivation of rights under color of law. The gravity of these offenses can lead to substantial penalties, including imprisonment, fines, or both. Specifically, individuals convicted of these violations can face imprisonment for up to ten years, or even life imprisonment in cases resulting in death.

The inclusion of possibilities extending from fines to the death penalty underscores the legal system's commitment to upholding civil rights and addressing severe abuses by government officials or those acting under government authority. This broad spectrum of penalties highlights the serious implications of violating individuals' civil rights, thus deterrents against such actions in law enforcement or government capacities.

In contrast, the other potential answers suggest much less severe consequences, which do not accurately reflect the gravity acknowledged by federal law regarding civil rights violations. Therefore, the correct understanding of the penalties under these U.S. Code sections captures the overarching intent of maintaining accountability and protecting citizens' rights through rigorous enforcement.