Extortion is a crime contemplated in the Italian penal code, and it occurs when a public official or a public service officer, abusing their position, forces or induces someone to give or promise improperly, to themselves or to third parties, money or other advantages.
The crime of extortion can manifest in various forms, primarily through coercion and inducement. It is important to understand the distinctions between these types to correctly identify the contours of the crime.
Extortion by coercion occurs when the public official uses threats or direct pressure to obtain an illegal advantage. In this case, the victim finds themselves in a situation of extreme difficulty, forced to yield to illegitimate demands to avoid negative consequences.
Extortion by inducement, on the other hand, materializes when the public official exploits their position to induce the victim to grant an advantage, leveraging a context of psychological subjugation or regulatory uncertainty. Even if the pressure is less direct compared to coercion, the coercive effect is still present.
"The distinction between coercion and inducement is crucial for determining the appropriate charge and sanction."
An even more subtle form of extortion is environmental extortion, where the abuse derives not so much from explicit pressures, but from a working or social context in which the victim perceives the request as a duty to maintain their status or job.
Understanding the crime of extortion and its variants is essential for anyone interacting with figures of authority. If you believe you have suffered such abuse, or if you need legal advice, do not hesitate to contact the Bianucci Law Firm. The team of experts is ready to provide you with the necessary support and guide you towards the best possible solution.