Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Showing sexy pics

I have been told that my life would be cut short of I showed some nude pictures of an acquaintance of mine.

I have advised the police. Am I commiting any crime by showing these pictures to my harasser's parents?

My harasser owes me some money so my only recourse is to take her to court, but I see no reason why I cannot show these pics to her parents!

What is the law?

Thank you


Asked on 10/10/01, 2:24 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Gary Preble Preble Law Firm, P.S.

Re: Showing sexy pics

The problem with what you are doing is that when you threaten to do something (reveal her pictures), it could possibly constitute the crime of Extortion, 2nd based on subsections (e), (f) or (j) of RCW 9A.04.110(25). I've set out the internet citations below.

The question would be whether "knowingly to obtain or attempt to obtain by threat property or services of the owner" includes money that is owed to you.

I'd go very carefully if I were you (meaning, don't do it). On the other hand, if she makes good on her threat that your life would be cut short, you wouldn't have to worry about it.

Court would be your better option for the money.

Now, if you aren't threatening, what to do with the pictures may be another matter. I recall that when similar pictures of a popular radio personality were publicized, she was not able to stop it. But I can't speak to the law regarding what you can do with the pictures if you are not threatening.

9A.56.110 Extortion -- Definition. http://search.leg.wa.gov/wslrcw/RCW%20%20%209A%20TITLE/RCW%20%20%209A.%2056%20%20CHAPTER/RCW%20%20%209A.%2056%20.110.htm

9A.56.120 Extortion in the first degree. http://search.leg.wa.gov/wslrcw/RCW%20%20%209A%20TITLE/RCW%20%20%209A.%2056%20%20CHAPTER/RCW%20%20%209A.%2056%20.120.htm

9A.56.130 Extortion in the second degree. http://search.leg.wa.gov/wslrcw/RCW%20%20%209A%20TITLE/RCW%20%20%209A.%2056%20%20CHAPTER/RCW%20%20%209A.%2056%20.130.htm

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Answered on 11/21/01, 9:59 pm


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