The Criminal Act of Extortion

Some people have been asking me about a past association that ended a few months ago. Unfortunately, the association had to be terminated (by me) as I was confronted with a threat of blackmail.

There is no such danger now. However, since the statute of limitations for this felony has not expired, a prosecution action may still be initiated.

As the party involved does read this blog, it would be well for this person to bear in mind the following:

The Criminal Act of Extortion

California extortion is a criminal offense whereby the defendant obtains goods or services by the use of direct threats or threatening behavior.

Extortion Using Blackmail

Blackmail is extortion by threatening another person's reputation or organization with the disclosure of harmful or secret information that would be damaging to that person if released. The information to be released may be true or false. The disclosure of the information does not have to be criminal nor does the offender actually have to receive money or property for the act to be considered extortion.

Extortion Penalties

California extortion, including bribery and blackmail are serious criminal offenses usually charged as a felony. These crimes are punishable by up to 4 years in state prison and/or fines of up to ($10,000) ten thousand dollars or more.

The aforementioned does not include any possible civil action that can and may also be initiated.