Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer Suffolk — Federal Defense
Extortion under color of official right is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act) prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are a public official or employee in Suffolk accused of using your position to obtain property not due to you, you face severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Statute for Extortion Under Color of Official Right
The federal crime of extortion under color of official right is defined in 18 U.S.C. § 1951, commonly known as the Hobbs Act. This statute prohibits actual or attempted robbery or extortion that affects interstate or foreign commerce. The “under color of official right” element specifically applies to public officials who use their office to obtain property to which they are not entitled, with the victim’s consent induced by the official’s wrongful use of fear or under color of official right. This is a distinct form of public corruption. The offense is investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Official Resources & Court Information
For the official text of the Hobbs Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For federal court procedures in Virginia, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website. These resources provide the statutory framework and local rules governing these cases.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents (FBI, IRS, etc.) may conduct a covert investigation, which can include surveillance, financial records review, and interviews.
- Grand Jury Subpoena: You or associates may receive a subpoena for documents or testimony before a federal grand jury.
- Indictment or Charge: The case is presented to a grand jury. If indicted, you will be arrested or summoned for an initial appearance in federal court.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will be formally charged and enter a plea. The court will determine if you will be released pending trial.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and may file pre-trial motions to challenge the indictment or suppress evidence.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case may proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through plea negotiations, often involving the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In Suffolk and the Eastern District of Virginia, a conviction for extortion under color of official right under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 carries up to 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion Under Color of Official Right (18 U.S.C. § 1951) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Loss of public office/position; professional license revocation | Forfeiture of assets; permanent felony record; loss of voting rights; difficulty obtaining future employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, handles complex federal criminal matters. Our approach to federal charges like extortion under color of official right involves a detailed analysis of the government’s evidence, the application of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, and strategic motion practice. We understand the high stakes of federal prosecutions, where penalties are severe and parole is not available.
Case Results & Defense Strategy
While specific local results for this federal charge in Suffolk are not publicly verifiable, our firm’s defense strategy is built on challenging the government’s proof of the “under color of official right” element and its impact on interstate commerce. We examine whether the alleged property was obtained through fear of economic harm or under the guise of official authority. For related state-level extortion charge defense in Suffolk, our team has documented favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Secondary attorney Matthew Greene brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing deep insight into high-stakes criminal proceedings.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804) 288-1661
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Suffolk. We are accessible via major routes including I-64 and I-95. We provide legal counsel to individuals in Suffolk, Harbour View, and North Suffolk. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. If you need a blackmail defense lawyer in Suffolk for related state charges, we can assist.
FAQs: Extortion Under Color of Official Right in Suffolk
Is extortion under color of official right a state or federal crime?
It is primarily a federal crime. Extortion under color of official right is prosecuted under the federal Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951) in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. State charges for similar conduct may also apply under Virginia law.
What does “under color of official right” mean?
It means the defendant used their actual or purported position as a public official to obtain property not lawfully due to them. The victim’s consent is given based on the official’s status or authority, which is wrongfully exploited.
What are the penalties for a federal extortion conviction?
A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison, fines, and asset forfeiture. Sentences are guided by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the value of the property and the defendant’s role.
Who investigates these charges in Suffolk?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is typically the lead agency, often working with other agencies like the IRS or the Virginia State Police. Investigations are lengthy and may involve electronic surveillance and confidential informants.
What defenses are available?
Common defenses include lack of intent, absence of a quid pro quo, that the property was a lawful gift or payment, or that the conduct did not affect interstate commerce. Challenging the legality of the investigation (e.g., search warrants) is also critical.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with related matters as a Suffolk criminal defense lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.