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 … [Read more...]