Connecticut Extortion and Blackmail Lawyer
Connecticut Larceny by Extortion Lawyer
- In Connecticut, committing Larceny by extortion – or “blackmail” – is a serious crime.
- If you attempt to get someone to do something by threatening harm, you can be charged with larceny/blackmail in Connecticut.
- Larceny by extortion, known as Larceny in the 1st degree, is a Class B Felony in C.T.
- If you’re accused of C.G.S. 53a-122 / Larceny by Extortion, contact a top Connecticut criminal defense attorney.
What is Larceny by Extortion in Connecticut?
Larceny by extortion is when someone intends to deprive another person of property or services by causing fear. Extortion in Connecticut includes scaring someone into giving you property by saying that you’ll cause harm, including causing a physical injury or property damage, engage in or accuse someone of a crime, or expose a secret or nude photo. Larceny by extortion is codified under Connecticut criminal statute § 53a-122(a)(1).
What is Blackmail in Connecticut?
Blackmail is the more commonly known name for Larceny by Extortion in Connecticut. While you can call it extortion or blackmail, the best Connecticut blackmail lawyers know it refers to the same conduct.
Can you get Arrested for Blackmail / Extortion in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut police officers, prosecutors, and judges take the crime of Larceny by Extortion / Blackmail seriously. Once the police receive an extortion complaint, they will often launch an in-depth investigation and, if they find evidence of extortion, will likely apply for search warrants or an arrest warrant in court.
What if I’m being Accused of Blackmail / Larceny by Extortion in Connecticut?
If you’re contacted by the police or find out that you’re being investigated for Larceny or blackmail in Connecticut, you should contact an experienced Connecticut criminal defense attorney before speaking to the police any further. Even if you think you have nothing to hide or haven’t done anything wrong, you should make statements to the police only with your criminal defense lawyer present.
What are the Penalties for Larceny by Extortion or Blackmail in C.T.?
When someone commits Larceny by extorting another person, the charge is automatically Larceny in the 1st degree – the most serious larceny charge – regardless of the value of the property or services at issue. Larceny in the 1st Degree / C.G.S. § 53a-122 is a Class B Felony in Connecticut, meaning that you’re exposed to up to 20 years in jail, a maximum fine of $15,000, plus a period of probation.
Can I Delete my Texts or Emails if I’m Being Accused of Blackmail by Police?
No – once you believe that a criminal investigation is pending or is about to start, it is illegal to destroy evidence in order to prevent police officers from getting it. In fact, you can be charged with the separate felony crime of Tampering with Physical Evidence / § 53a-155. For more on what Tampering with Physical Evidence covers in Connecticut, check out this post.
Can the Police Subpoena my Phone or Text Messages during an Extortion Case?
Yes. When it’s alleged that there was a written threat of harm, written blackmail, or an electronically recorded payment, Connecticut police or prosecutors will likely submit a search warrant application to the judge to get those records directly from the providers, like AT&T, Verizon, Venmo, or your bank.
Contact a Connecticut Blackmail / Extortion Attorney Lawyer Today
If you were arrested or are being investigated for Larceny by Extortion or blackmail in Connecticut, be sure you’re represented by an experienced Connecticut criminal defense attorney who can make sure that your rights are protected. Our team of experienced Connecticut criminal attorneys can help you every step of the way. Check out our hundreds of Avvo.com certified reviews from past clients. Then call us today at (203) 358-4700.