Criminal Extortion
Criminal And Aggravated Extortion Denver Attorney
We generally consider extortion, C.R.S. 18-3-207, to be a crime charged against serious cases involving millions of dollars or organized criminals. Actually, this serious-sounding crime can occur in Adams, Denver and Douglas counties from relatively minor conduct. Read below and we will discuss some of these.
The Definition Of Criminal Extortion In Jefferson County And Arapahoe County
Formally, extortion results when someone tries to get another person to do something against their will (or not to do something they want to do), by threatening to confine, restrain, hurt economically, hurt physically, damage property or harm their reputation. A threat is not enough for commission of this crime. The person charged must, in furtherance of the threat, also commit an unlawful act, get a third party to act against the threatened person, or threaten to report someone’s immigration status for money. For aggravated extortion, the actor must also threaten the use of poison, weapons or chemicals in support of their effort to get someone to act against their will. Our criminal defense lawyers will sift through these elements in your defense.
How Douglas County, Colorado, Criminal Extortion Is Different Than Bribery
Bribery, C.R.S. 18-5-401, and extortion are different in Douglas County because with extortion, a person tells someone to do or not do something, or face harm. Bribery involves offering a reward (vs. threatened harm) for someone violating a fiduciary responsibility. Fiduciary responsibilities arise with agents, employees, trustees, guardians, lawyers, accountants, physicians, doctors, officers of companies, arbitrators and labor organization representatives. Responsibilities involving public officials are a separate crime. Did you know there is even a separate sports bribery charge in Colorado? C.R.S. 18-5-403.
Adams County Example Of Criminal Extortion Crime
A crime can occur even though you don’t intend to commit a crime or know of its existence. Imagine telling a neighbor who you know is illegally here that you are going to report them to INS or Homeland Security, unless they stop parking their truck in front of your home. Or, consider the person who tells his neighbor he will get him fired from his job (economic hardship) unless he stops working on his unsightly car in the driveway. Small arguments like these can result in charges of extortion in Arapahoe, Jefferson and Douglas counties.
Don’t take chances on being charged with bribery or extortion. If the police contacts you, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call our experienced attorneys at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
