extorting

Extortion is the act of obtaining money, property, or services from another person through coercion. In criminal contexts, it involves a wrongful demand backed by threats of harm, violence, property damage, or other adverse actions unless the target complies. The key elements typically include a demand for something of value, a threat or use of coercion, and a lack of lawful justification for the demand. Threats may take various forms, including physical harm, damage to property, exposure of embarrassing information, or abuse of a position of power. Blackmail is often described as a form of extortion that centers on threats to reveal sensitive information.

Extortion differs from robbery and fraud in its emphasis on coercion rather than the immediate taking of property or deceitful schemes. It can occur in many contexts, such as personal interactions, business dealings, organized crime, or corruption in public office (official extortion). In some instances, an extortionist may demand money under the threat of legal or reputational harm, even where the demand is unlawful or not legally enforceable.

Legally, extortion is illegal in most jurisdictions and is typically punishable as a serious crime, often a felony. Penalties vary by jurisdiction and can include imprisonment, fines, and restitution, with harsher penalties when threats involve violence, occur against vulnerable individuals, or involve public officials. Defenses may include duress or lack of intent, and whether a particular act qualifies as extortion can depend on the specific statutory language and the surrounding circumstances.