Under what condition can someone be charged with witness interference?

The ability to charge someone with witness interference hinges on the intent to disrupt or manipulate the judicial process involving the testimony of a witness. Threatening a witness with harm falls squarely within this definition, as it directly attempts to intimidate or coerce the witness into altering their testimony or failing to testify altogether. Such actions undermine the integrity of the legal process, as they discourage honest and voluntary testimony from individuals who may possess crucial information regarding a case.

The other options do not constitute witness interference. Providing a character reference for a defendant is a lawful action and can serve to support a defendant’s case. Being a bystander during a trial does not engage any action that interferes with the judicial process and, in fact, most trials allow for the presence of spectators. Offering legal advice to a witness may not necessarily constitute interference, as it could be seen as supportive rather than coercive, provided that the advice is not intended to corrupt the witness's testimony or influence them improperly. Thus, the only option that directly aligns with the legal definition of witness interference is the threat of harm.