Extortion (Blackmail)

Penal Code 518 PC

Under Penal Code 518 PC, the California crime of extortion (also known as “blackmail”) occurs when you do any of the following:

1. use force or threats to compel another person to give you money or other property,
2. use force or threats to compel a public officer to perform an official act, or
3. if you are a public official, act under color of your official right to compel another person to give you money or other property.

Penalties

Extortion In California in most cases is a felony . The penalties are two (2), three (3) or four (4) years in State prison, and/or a ten thousand dollar ($10,000) fine.