What is extortion?

The criminal offense of extortion is committed when a person uses coercion on another person with the intent to obtain property, services, any advantage or immunity OR to restrict unlawfully another’s freedom of action. Often this criminal offense is associated with organized crime.

What defenses are available?

There are two affirmative defenses specifically provided for the crime of extortion. Repayment for harm done and compensation for property or lawful services. Both situations are scenarios where the person who was allegedly coerced, actually owed the defendant money.

How much jail time am I facing if I am convicted of extortion in Tennessee?

Extortion is a Class D Felony in Tennessee which means that the sentence could range anywhere from 2 to 12 years, depending on the range of the offender. Your ‘range’ depends on the number of prior felony convictions.

Extortion is a very serious crime. If you are facing an extortion charge in Nashville or a surrounding county, contact our Nashville criminal attorneys today for a free case consultation.