3.307 — EXTORTION

Violations of "Statute 3.307" results in a Class C Misdemeanor

---

(a) Definitions

Extortion is the act of unlawfully obtaining money, property, services, or other valuables from another person through coercion, threats, intimidation, or undue influence.

(b) Elements

The following elements must be met to constitute extortion:

1. Making threats or using force or intimidation against another person.

2. Demanding money, property, services, or other valuables from the person as a result of these threats or actions.

3. Intent to unlawfully gain from the coercion or intimidation.

(c) Defenses

A defendant may raise the following defenses against a charge of extortion:

• It shall be a defense to a charge of extortion if the defendant can prove that the demands made were lawful or made under legitimate circumstances, such as in the course of a contractual agreement.

• Entrapment may also serve as a defense if the defendant can prove that they were induced or coerced into committing the act of extortion by law enforcement or another individual.

Types of Extortion

(a) Extortion may include, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Threats of physical harm or violence against the person or their property.

2. Threats of revealing damaging or embarrassing information about the person.

3. Coercion through abuse of power or authority, such as a public official demanding bribes.