Which section defines deprivation of rights under color of law?

• A. Section 241
• B. Section 1983
• C. Section 1985
• D. Section 242

Answer: (D)

Deprivation of rights under color of law is defined by the criminal statute that makes it a crime for anyone acting under color of law to willfully deprive a person of rights protected by the Constitution or federal law. “Under color of law” means using official authority to violate someone’s rights, such as a police officer denying due process or exercising authority in a way that infringes constitutional protections. This statute establishes the offense itself and requires intent to deprive rights, which is why it’s the best answer here. The other provisions relate to related ideas but do not define the offense: one covers conspiracy to injure rights; another provides a civil remedy for victims harmed by state actors; and a third addresses conspiracies to interfere with civil rights in a different context.