What is the difference between bribery and extortion?

Bribery and extortion are both forms of white collar crime, but there are important differences between the two. Bribery is the offering or receiving of something of value to influence another person’s actions or decisions. In Oregon, bribery occurs when someone offers or gives money, property, services or favors to an employee or official in order to influence their decision-making. It is a crime for such official to accept that bribe. Extortion, on the other hand, is the act of obtaining something through the use of threats or coercion. It is an offense for anyone to threaten to or actually injure the reputation or property of another in order to obtain something of value. Extortion can involve threats to reveal embarrassing or damaging information about someone, threaten physical harm or financial harm, or withhold something of value from the target. In Oregon, white collar crime involving bribe and extortion is subject to criminal prosecution. Federal law and state law alike prohibit these crimes, with criminal penalties of up to 20 years in prison or significant fines. The criminal law is designed to protect individuals and businesses from the misuse of power or influence, and sent a message that those who engage in bribery and extortion will be punished.

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