Rescue

Rescue, in English law, is the illegal delivery and discharge of a prisoner or of goods out of the custody of the law. If, for example, a tenant whose goods are distrained for rent take them by force from the bailiff, the distrainer has a right of action against the person who rescues the goods. A person who rescues a prisoner accused or convicted of treason, felony, or misdemeanour is himself deemed to be guilty of treason, felony, &c.; the punishment varies with the gravity of the charge. A person who rescues or attempts to rescue a murderer going to execution is liable to penal servitude for life.