Extortion is the unlawful acquisition of money, services, labor, or other property of value by wrongfully threatening to inflict or by inflicting physical harm to another person, to that person’s property or reputation, or destroying, confiscating, or otherwise interfering with an immigration document with the intent to harm that person’s immigration status. Employees or their representatives who legitimately engage in efforts to obtain improved wages, hours, or working conditions are exempt from Maryland’s extortion law. The following table lists the potential maximum penalties for extortion:
|
Crimes |
Value of Property |
Type of Charge |
Maximum Fine |
Maximum Prison Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Extortion |
$500 or more |
Felony |
$5,000 |
10 years |
|
Less than $500 |
Misdemeanor |
$500 |
18 months |
|
|
Extortion by Officer or Employee of State or Political Subdivision |
$500 or more |
Felony |
$5,000 |
10 years |
|
Less than $500 |
Misdemeanor |
$500 |
6 months |
There is a 5-year statute of limitations on a charge of felony extortion. In addition to fines and jail time, a felony extortion charge against a State officer or employee may prevent that officer from holding a public position in the future.
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