What defines a credible threat?

• A. A verbal or nonverbal threat, or a combination of the two, that places someone in reasonable fear for their safety or the safety of their family and friends
• B. A rumor with no basis
• C. A non-threatening gesture
• D. A written notice of eviction

Answer: (A)

A credible threat is one that communicates an intention to harm and would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety. It can be spoken or expressed through actions, or both, and the key point is the perception of real danger by the recipient. The fear must be reasonable given the circumstances.

That’s why the best choice describes a threat that places someone in reasonable fear for their safety or the safety of their family and friends. The other options don’t fit because a rumor with no basis isn’t a communicated threat of harm, a non-threatening gesture isn’t a danger, and a written eviction notice isn’t a threat to personal safety.