Is this situation considered extortion?
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Is this situation considered extortion?
Someone keyed my car and is now denying it after already filing a police report. We told a mutual friend that we wouldnt press charges as long as the car was fixed by them and the mutual friend told them they should pay for we will press charges. Now the mother is threatening extortion. Is this extortion on our part or no considering she is a mutual third party. We have had no contact with the person at fault.
Asked on May 31, 2019 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
It is illegal: you are not allowed to use the criminal justice system or threats of criminal prosecution to make someone pay you money. Either file a police report and look to press charges or don't: you can't say you'll do it unless paid. You could also sue (such as in small claims court) for the cost of repairs.
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