Extortion is the threatening, coercive act of demanding payment, favorable government action from a public official, or another benefit from someone in return for not doing violent, physical harm or injury to the victim or his property, or revealing compromising or damaging information about the victim (whether it is true or false), or causing unfavorable government action against the victim or his interests. Extortion (sometimes referred to as the crime of coercion or blackmail) is a criminal offense in all states and under federal law.

Extortion can occur in person, by telephone, by U.S. mail, by e-mail, by text message, through social media, or by other means of communication.

The definition and penalties for the crime of extortion vary from state to state—in some states blackmail is part of the criminal offense of extortion, and in some states blackmail and extortion are separate criminal offenses.

The crime of extortion may be prosecuted as a felony in some states—with potential prison time—or as a misdemeanor eligible for probation. The crime of extortion is usually located in a state’s statutes. And extortion is also a crime under federal law. See 18 U.S.C. §872 to 18 U.S.C. §876.

In Connecticut, extortion is considered a serious criminal offense and is defined under state law as obtaining property from another, with his or her consent, induced by wrongful use of actual or threatened force, violence, or fear, or under color of official right. This can include threats of violence, damage to property, or abuse of official position. Extortion is typically prosecuted as a felony, which means that a conviction can result in significant prison time, fines, or both. The specific statutes that address extortion in Connecticut can be found in the Connecticut General Statutes under sections 53a-119 to 53a-122, which cover various forms of theft and related offenses, including extortion. Additionally, under federal law, extortion is criminalized under 18 U.S.C. §872 to 18 U.S.C. §876, which also covers threats and demands for money or other benefits, and can be prosecuted when there is a federal jurisdictional basis for the charges. Penalties under federal law can also include imprisonment and fines. It is important for individuals facing extortion charges to consult with an attorney who can provide legal advice specific to the circumstances of their case.