You may not know it, and most victims of blackmail often question whether is blackmail illegal in Oregon, but blackmail is a serious crime in the state of Oregon. If you’ve been a victim of online blackmail or internet sextortion, you may be wondering what your legal options are. Here’s everything you need to know about the law surrounding blackmail in Oregon.
Is Blackmail a Crime in Oregon?
Yes, blackmail is a crime in the state of Oregon, Oregon Laws define the crime as “A person commits the crime of extortion when the person compels or induces another person to either deliver property or services to the person or to a third person, or refrain from reporting unlawful conduct to a law enforcement agency, by instilling in the other person a fear that, if the property or services are not so delivered or if the unlawful conduct is reported, the actor or a third person will in the future:
- Unlawfully cause physical injury to some person;
- Unlawfully cause damage to property;
- Engage in other conduct constituting a crime;
- Accuse some person of a crime or cause criminal charges to be instituted against the person;
- Report the immigration status, or suspected immigration status, of the other person, or some other person known to the other person, to a law enforcement agency;
- Cause or continue a strike, boycott or other collective action injurious to some person’s business, except that such conduct is not considered extortion when the property is demanded or received for the benefit of the group in whose interest the actor purports to act;
- Testify falsely or provide false information or withhold testimony or information with respect to another’s legal claim or defense; or
- Unlawfully use or abuse the position as a public servant by performing some act within or related to official duties, or by failing or refusing to perform an official duty, in such manner as to affect some person adversely.
The crime of blackmail in OR is deemed a Class B felony. This charge is punishable by a 10-year sentence and/or a fine of up to $250,000.
What Blackmail Laws in Oregon Protect You and What are Their Punishments?
In addition to blackmail charges, many other laws have been put in place to protect victims of blackmail. Below are three examples of many blackmail laws in Oregon that can be classified as other charges on top of blackmail.
Coercion
This is when a person persuades someone to do something by using force or threats. This crime is a Class C felony and is often charged with a probation period with some jail time although a coercion conviction can also come with a prison sentence.
Stalking
This is when a person is repeatedly harassed. This crime is a Class A misdemeanor. If a perpetrator has prior convictions of stalking or violating a stalking protective order that misdemeanor can change to a Class C felony.
Computer Crime
This is when a criminal hacks a victim’s computer, computer system, or network and tries to obtain important information or money. This can be if a perp hacks into a victim’s email or social media accounts. This crime can be charged with a Class C felony or a Class A misdemeanor.
So, Is Blackmail Illegal in Oregon? Сonclusions
If you have been the victim of blackmail, you should know that legal options are available. You may be able to file a criminal or civil case against the person who has committed this crime against you. Depending on the severity of the crime, the person accused of blackmail may face misdemeanor or felony charges, fines, and/or jail time. If you ever wonder whether is blackmail illegal in Oregon, you should contact an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options under Oregon law.
