Criminal Penalties in Poland
While traveling in Poland, you are subject to its laws, even if you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. In some places you may be taken in for questioning if you don't have your passport with you. It is illegal in Poland to take pictures of military buildings and other national security or restricted objects. Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail. Likewise, riding a bike while under the influence is also illegal and can result in being jailed, paying steep fines and banned from riding a bike in Poland for half a year or more. Criminal penalties in Poland vary from the United States. There are some things that might be legal in Poland, but illegal in the United States, for which you can be prosecuted under U.S. law, such as buying pirated goods. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in Poland is a crime prosecutable in Poland and in the United States. If you break local laws in Poland, your U.S. passport won't help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It's very important to know what's legal and what's not wherever you visit.
Penalties are severe for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Poland, and you can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines if convicted.
If you are arrested in Poland, the authorities are required to notify the nearestU.S.embassy or consulate of your arrest, but this does not always happen quickly. If you are concerned that the Department of State may not be aware of your situation, you should request the policeor prison officials to notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate of your arrest. This pertains in particular to dual U.S.-Polish nationals, since Poland does not recognize (although it does not prohibit) dual nationality. A person holding Polish and U.S. citizenship is deemed by Poland to be a Polish citizen.
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