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WHAT IS EXTORTION (BLACKMAIL) IN NEVADA?
Extortion — commonly called blackmail — is threatening to expose information, accuse someone of a crime, or cause other harm in order to obtain money, property, or other benefits. It is the crime of leveraging threats for personal gain.
WHAT THE PROSECUTION MUST PROVE
To convict you of Extortion (Blackmail) in Nevada, the prosecution must prove each of the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
The defendant threatened to accuse the victim of a crime, expose damaging information, or cause other harm
The purpose was to obtain money, property, or other benefits from the victim
The threat was communicated to the victim
If the prosecution cannot prove any single element beyond a reasonable doubt, you cannot be convicted.
PENALTIES FOR EXTORTION (BLACKMAIL) IN NEVADA
Extortion
Category B felony. 1 to 10 years in Nevada State Prison and/or up to $10,000 fine.
THOMAS'S DEFENSE TIPS
Insights from Thomas Boley — Las Vegas criminal defense attorney with 18+ years defending extortion (blackmail) charges
Extortion cases often involve digital evidence — texts, emails, and social media messages. These communications are typically the prosecution's primary evidence.
The threat does not have to be carried out for extortion to occur. The crime is complete when the threat is communicated with the intent to obtain something of value.
Threatening to report a crime unless paid to stay quiet is extortion — even if the underlying crime actually occurred.
The above represents general observations from years of criminal defense practice in Nevada. Every case is different — contact Thomas for advice specific to your situation.
COMMON DEFENSES TO EXTORTION (BLACKMAIL)
Every case is unique, but these are the defenses most commonly raised in extortion (blackmail) cases in Nevada:
No threat was made — the communication was a legitimate demand
No intent to obtain money or property
False accusation
Insufficient evidence