Blackmail is defined in the Theft Act 1968 as the making of any unwarranted demands with menaces by a person with the intention of gain for himself or another or with the intent to cause loss to another. This means that the offender will threaten the victim with unwarranted demands and if the victim does not comply they will do something against the victim’s wishes.
Blackmail is a serious offence that is triable only on indictment and is subject to a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment.
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