Extortion Complaint — How a NYC Victim Secured a Conviction and Full Restitution through Sjkp’S Legal Action

The victim and perpetrator had previously worked together at a New York company. 

Months after parting ways, the perpetrator resurfaced, claiming to possess information that could jeopardize the victim’s upcoming promotion.

He demanded tens of thousands of dollars, warning he would “report everything to your employer” unless payments were made. These threats formed the core of the Extortion Complaint, as they directly targeted the victim’s livelihood.

Out of fear of workplace retaliation, the victim paid multiple times before realizing the cycle would not stop without filing an Extortion Complaint and securing attorney representation.

The attorney clarified that under:

• NY Penal Law §155.05(2)(e) (larceny by extortion)
• NY Penal Law §135.60 (coercion in the second degree)

extortion occurs when someone obtains money by threatening:

• Damage to reputation
• False accusations or fabricated complaints
• Economic or professional harm
• Acts restricting the victim’s lawful freedom

This distinction grounded the Extortion Complaint and demonstrated the perpetrator’s criminal liability.

The evidence showed the perpetrator:

• Sent repeated texts referencing fabricated allegations
• Used guilt and fear to extract payments
• Stated “You have much more to lose than I do,” a classic extortion tactic
• Provided detailed instructions on payment methods and deadlines

These communications clearly demonstrated coercive pressure and intent central elements of any Extortion Complaint.

To strengthen the Extortion Complaint, the attorney also highlighted emotional harm:

• The victim and spouse required psychiatric treatment
• Both took prescribed medication for anxiety and insomnia
• The victim experienced fear of workplace consequences for months

This evidence showed the extortion caused long-term emotional and psychological distress, supporting a more serious sentencing outcome.

The court:

• Convicted the perpetrator under coercion and extortion provisions
• Imposed a significant criminal fine
• Ordered repayment of all money extorted over several months

The restitution award restored the victim financially and marked a complete legal victory resulting directly from the Extortion Complaint.

The attorney’s involvement was critical in securing this outcome. They:

• Verified the pattern of escalating threats
• Organized and authenticated digital evidence
• Drafted a comprehensive Extortion Complaint
• Demonstrated emotional and financial harm
• Advocated for restitution and a meaningful penalty

This case illustrates why victims should not confront extortionists alone—especially when employment, stability, and safety are at risk.

SJKP’s criminal-litigation team represents victims facing blackmail, coercion, threats, and extortion. 

If you are being intimidated, pressured for money, or threatened with professional or reputational harm, filing an Extortion Complaint may be the safest and most effective step.

Our attorneys can help evaluate the threats, gather evidence, file the complaint, and work with prosecutors to obtain protection and restitution.

Contact SJKP for confidential assistance.