Last Updated on October 30, 2023

Blackmail is a serious crime that involves the threat of exposing private information or images in exchange for something of value. If you find yourself in this challenging situation, it is crucial to understand that blackmail is against the law in Tennessee. Convictions for this crime can result in severe penalties. Continue reading to learn more about blackmail and how to handle it.

What does blackmail mean in Tennessee?

Blackmail refers to the act of using threats to coerce someone into doing something against their will. In Tennessee, for a blackmail charge to be valid, the prosecutor must show that the defendant made threats to compel the victim to comply with their demands.

Financial blackmail is the most prevalent form, where the perpetrator threatens to expose embarrassing information unless a ransom is paid. Nevertheless, blackmail can also include threats of physical harm to the victim or their loved ones, property damage, the disclosure of confidential information, or any other action that would cause distress to the victim.

What are the penalties for blackmail in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee Code § 39-14-112, engaging in extortion is considered a class D felony offense in Tennessee. Penalties for conviction vary depending on the case’s circumstances and can result in a sentence of up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Familiarizing yourself with blackmail laws in Tennessee can help prevent falling victim to this crime.

What should I do if I’m being blackmailed?

1. Don’t give in.

The very first thing that you have to do when being blackmailed is to not give in to the blackmailer’s demands. By succumbing to their demands, you are only giving them more power over you. This will only encourage the blackmailer to continue their actions, and they may even start making more demands. It’s vital to stay calm and think through your next steps to protect yourself without giving in.

2. Keep evidence.

Evidence is your best friend when it comes to blackmail. Keep all the evidence that relates to the incident and make copies of it. By doing so, you’ll have a paper trail that can be used to demonstrate the blackmail if the situation escalates. Make sure that the evidence is safely stored so it doesn’t pose a security risk.

3. Seek help from legal advisors:

Law enforcement should always be the first course of action when facing blackmail, but sometimes, it’s preferable to seek support from a legal expert first. Individuals like lawyers can provide professional counsel on what you can do, especially if the blackmail violates your legal rights or goes against boundaries.

4. Notify the authorities.

Suppose you were blackmailed by a stranger who does not have personal information about you. In that case, you must report it to the police. Provide them with all the possible information you have, including emails and phone numbers used for communication. Notify your loved ones as early as possible as a way of seeking their support.

5. Seek emotional support.

Blackmail situations can be stressful, and it’s essential to seek emotional support from friends or family members. Sharing what you’re going through can help ease the burden and make you feel less isolated. If emotional support sounds too overwhelming, you can find an anonymous forum online where you can share without revealing your identity.

Conclusion

If you’ve been threatened with blackmail or the exposure of private information or images, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to Cyber Investigation immediately for assistance in putting an end to this ordeal and protecting your rights. Remember, blackmail is illegal in Tennessee. Our 24/7 blackmail helpline is here to provide help when you need it. Feel free to comment or share your story below.