KRS 514.080: Theft by Extortion in Kentucky

What Is KRS 514.080?

KRS 514.080 is Kentucky’s extortion statute. It covers obtaining property through threats or coercion — sometimes called “blackmail.” People in Lexington and Louisville face these felony charges in cases involving everything from business disputes to revenge schemes.

What the Statute Prohibits

A person commits theft by extortion when they intentionally obtain property by threatening to:

Inflict bodily injury on someone
Commit any other criminal offense
Accuse someone of a criminal offense
Expose any secret tending to subject anyone to hatred, contempt, or ridicule
Take or withhold action as a public servant
Inflict any other harm not constituting an actual benefit

Penalties Under KRS 514.080

Class D felony: 1 to 5 years in prison (typical)
Higher felony charges based on value or harm
Substantial fines and restitution

Common Cases

Threatening to release embarrassing information unless paid
Threatening to file false complaints unless demands met
Coercing payments through threats of violence
“Sextortion” — threatening to release intimate images
Online ransomware attacks

Federal Implications

Many extortion cases involve interstate communications, triggering federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 875 with much more severe penalties.

Defenses Available

The threats weren’t actually made
The “threat” was actually a legitimate request
The property obtained wasn’t the result of the threat
Mistaken identity
Challenging digital evidence

Clark + Harris Defends Extortion Charges

Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

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