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 Washington State, extortion is defined under RCW 9A.56.120 and is considered a serious criminal offense. It involves unlawfully obtaining property, services, or some other benefit from another person through the use of force, fear, or threats. This can include threats of violence, damage to property, or the exposure of a secret that would subject a person to hatred, contempt, or ridicule. Extortion is typically prosecuted as a felony in Washington, and the severity of the charges can vary based on the circumstances of the crime, such as the amount of money or value of property involved. Penalties for extortion can include imprisonment, fines, or both. Additionally, under federal law, extortion is criminalized by 18 U.S.C. §872 to 18 U.S.C. §876, which also covers threats against individuals, with the intent to extort money, property, or anything of value. The federal statutes address various forms of extortion, including those committed through interstate communication or against federal officials.