What is the difference between bribery and extortion?

Bribery and extortion are two very similar criminal activities that occur in Pennsylvania. Both involve the offering of something of value (money, goods, services,etc.), in exchange for the recipient to do something that they would otherwise not do. However, there are key differences between the two. Bribery is a crime committed when someone offers something of value in exchange for someone else to perform a specific task or action. This action is typically illegal and intended to be kept secret. For example, a business owner may offer a public official money in exchange for a contract to be awarded to them without proper public bidding. Extortion, on the other hand, is a crime committed when someone threatens to do something damaging or embarrassing to the victim unless the victim pays them. The threat in this case is usually public or well known. In Pennsylvania, extortion typically involves a threat of physical harm or of some kind of public disgrace. The key difference between the two is that bribery involves an exchange of an item of value for someone to do something they would not do, while extortion involves a threat in order to receive payment. Bribery and extortion are both serious crimes in Pennsylvania and are both punishable by lengthy prison sentences.

Related FAQs

What are some of the possible defenses to a violent crime charge?
What types of sentences can be imposed for a violent crime conviction?
What is the difference between probation and parole?
What is the difference between bribery and extortion?
What is the statute of limitations for a violent crime?
What is the difference between kidnapping and false imprisonment?
What is the difference between first degree and second degree murder?
What is the process for plea bargaining a violent crime case?
What are the consequences of a conviction for a violent crime?
How is the severity of a violent crime determined?

What is the difference between bribery and extortion?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts