Graft

A colloquial term referring to the unlawful acquisition of public money through questionable and improper transactions with public officials.

Graft is the personal gain or advantage earned by an individual at the expense of others as a result of the exploitation of the singular status of, or an influential relationship with, another who has a position of public trust or confidence. The advantage or gain is accrued without any exchange of legitimate compensatory services.

Behavior that leads to graft includes BRIBERY and dishonest dealings in the performance of public or official acts. Graft usually implies the existence of theft, corruption, FRAUD, and the lack of integrity that is expected in any transaction involving a public official.