How is a conspiracy defined in the context of 18 USC 241?

A conspiracy, in the context of 18 USC 241, is defined primarily by the agreement between two or more persons to commit an unlawful act or to do something that is unlawful. The number of conspirators is significant because a conspiracy typically involves multiple parties who come together to plan or execute a criminal objective. This aspect underscores the collaborative nature of conspiracy, distinguishing it from other crimes that may involve an individual acting alone.

Additionally, 18 USC 241 pertains specifically to the act of conspiring against someone's civil rights. Therefore, having multiple conspirators illustrates not just an agreement but the collective nature of the intent to violate those rights. The focus on the number of conspirators emphasizes the importance of the cooperative effort in executing the intended unlawful actions, as conspiracy relies on collaboration toward a common unlawful goal.

Understanding the collective aspect of conspiracy allows law enforcement and the judicial system to address complex criminal activities that may involve extensive planning and coordination among individuals, which can be critical when seeking justice for victims of civil rights violations.