MS HB1143

Adds new subsection (2)(b) to Mississippi Code Section 97-3-82 establishing that an inmate commits felony extortion by obtaining or attempting to obtain property from another inmate, family member, or other person through threats of bodily injury, criminal offense, or revelation of non-public information intended to humiliate or embarrass.

Defines extortion to include threats to inflict bodily injury, commit other criminal offenses, violate civil statutes, or reveal private information for purposes of humiliation or embarrassment.

Maintains existing penalty structure: misdemeanor for extortion under $500 (up to 6 months jail); felony for extortion of $500 or more or for obtaining intangible rewards (up to 15 years imprisonment).

Provides enhanced penalties for public officials who commit extortion in their official capacity (2-20 years imprisonment regardless of property value).

Takes effect July 1, 2018.