With a population of over 7 million, Washington is the 18th largest state in America. With such a robust number of inhabitants, blackmail has begun to run rampant in Washington. But is online blackmail against the law? Keep reading to find out if Blackmail is illegal in Washington state, what the punishments could be, and how you can protect yourself.
Is Blackmail Illegal in Washington State?
In Washington State, blackmail is an illegal activity. This refers to blackmail as being when one person knowingly threatens to injure another’s financial or personal property to use fear of that injury to persuade the other person to do or refrain from doing any act against their will. This also covers threats that can be either explicit or implicit and can range from physical harm and various forms of criminal investigations to undesirable publicity and social ridicule. Those found guilty are typically faced with criminal charges such as extortion, fraud, and coercion.
What is Punishment for Blackmail in WA?
Blackmail is considered a Class B felony in Washington state. The punishment for this offense can vary depending on the circumstances, as well as how many charges have been leveled against an individual. If found guilty of blackmail, one could face up to 10 years in prison and/or a substantial fine. Additionally, there could be a restitution fee required to pay back any funds acquired through extortion efforts. Those who are repeat offenders will generally be subject to more severe punishments than those who commit the crime once or twice; this could include longer prison sentences and greater fines.
What Blackmail Laws in Washington State Protect You?
Blackmail is an illegal activity surrounding the use of illicit knowledge or threats to a victim’s security. In Washington State, these laws strictly forbid any individual from making false accusations against another to obtain money, services, or other benefits. They also make it unlawful for someone to communicate compromising information with ill intent or malicious purposes. Citizens in Washington are protected by the state’s blackmail laws from those who attempt to coerce them into engaging in economic or personal gain. Below listed are the statutes:
- Wash. Rev. Code Section 9A:56.110 “Extortion” means knowingly to obtain or attempt to obtain by threat property or services of the owner, and specifically includes sexual favors.
- Wash. Rev. Code Section 9A:56.120 (1) A person is guilty of extortion in the first degree if he or she commits extortion using a threat as defined in *RCW 9A. 04.110(27) (a), (b), or (c). (2) Extortion in the first degree is a class B felony.
- Wash. Rev. Code Section 9A:56.130 (1) A person is guilty of extortion in the second degree if he or she commits extortion using a wrongful threat as defined in RCW 9A.
This can be categorized by:
- First-degree extortion
- Second-degree extortion
- Third-degree extortion
How to Avoid Blackmail in Washington State?
To mitigate the risk of becoming a victim of blackmail in Washington, it is imperative to take certain precautions. One of the most crucial steps is to limit the amount of personal information shared online and offline. Even seemingly minor details can be used against an individual if they fall into the wrong hands. Additionally, it is essential to exercise caution when responding to suspicious emails or other forms of communication that may be part of a phishing attempt. By taking the time to scrutinize these messages, individuals can avoid inadvertently disclosing sensitive information such as passwords or financial data.
What do you do if you become a victim in Washington State?
If you want to safeguard yourself and get justice, here are a few actions you can take:
- Report the crime to your local law enforcement immediately. Time is of the essence in these situations.
- Document everything related to the crime. Even if you feel tempted to delete information, it may be crucial to the investigation and prosecution of the offender.
- Reach out for support. You are not alone in this. Seek help from family, friends, or health professionals.
- Do not pay or block the blackmailer. This may only make them more aggressive. Instead, seek help from professionals who can assist you.
- Contact third-party professional organizations like blackmail helplines. They have trained professionals who can help you with the digital aspects of the crime.
Extortion in Washington State: A Summary
Washington’s Revised Code defines extortion as knowingly obtaining or attempting to get property or services through threats. This includes anything from physical harm to the release of private information. Notably, the victim’s consent to give up the desired property or services does not negate the crime, as the critical element lies in using a threat.
Washington categorizes extortion into two degrees:
- Extortion in the First Degree: This more serious crime involves threats of bodily injury, property damage, or physical confinement. It also encompasses threats like accusing someone of a crime, exposing secrets, or taking wrongful official action. Punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine, it covers a wide range of scenarios, including blackmail and threats against family members.
- Extortion in the Second Degree: This slightly less severe crime encompasses threats like accusing someone of a crime, causing economic harm, or damaging one’s reputation. Blackmail and threats by officials for bribes fall under this category. Penalties include up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Blackmail and online extortion are common aspects of extortion cases. With the rise of cybercrime, legal expertise in technology and law is crucial for navigating this complex area.
