Which of the following penalties applies to the crime of bribery as per 18 USC § 201?

The applicable penalty for the crime of bribery under 18 USC § 201 is significant, reflecting the seriousness of the offense in undermining public trust and integrity in government operations. Bribery is classified as a federal crime due to its potential to corrupt officials and the need to uphold ethical standards in public service. In this context, a penalty of up to 15 years in prison serves as a substantial deterrent, emphasizing the legal system's commitment to addressing such corrupt acts.

While other penalties may be associated with different criminal offenses, they do not match the severity outlined for bribery. The higher penalty underscores the judiciary's recognition of the negative impact bribery can have on both individuals and governmental processes, thereby justifying a stricter approach to punishment for those found guilty of this crime. This is aimed at both punishing offenders and deterring future violations, contributing to the overall integrity of the public sector.