#Extortion definition law code#

Each is classified as a felony, with extortion in the first degree being the more serious crime. In Washington State, there are two levels of extortion: extortion in the first degree and extortion in the second degree.

The key element – the use of a “threat” to get the property or services – is unaffected by the victim's consent. The fact that the victim may actually consent to giving up the requested property or services (usually so as to avoid the threatened violence) does not change the fact that the crime of extortion has been committed. Under this definition, any attempt – successful or not – to force someone else to give up money, property, or their services, through the threat of violence or some other harm to that person or their reputation, is extortion.

#Extortion definition law code#

The Revised Code of Washington states that extortion “means knowingly to obtain or attempt to obtain by threat property or services of the owner, and specifically includes sexual favors.” See RCW 9A.56.110. In Washington State, extortion is a serious crime, classified as a felony and punishable by significant jail time or fines. What is extortion? Blackmail secrets exposed by a scorned lover, “protection” offered in exchange for money by someone with ties to organized crime, threats towards or intimidation of close family members by individuals in a gang: all of these are classic examples of extortion.