If an investigator blackmails an employee for $1000 after catching theft, what crime has occurred?

In this scenario, the correct classification of the crime committed would fall under deceptive practices. Deceptive practices encompass a wide range of dishonest actions, including obtaining money under false pretenses or coercing someone into conceding through threats or manipulation. Blackmail, by its very nature, involves coercing an individual into paying money under duress, which aligns closely with deceptive practices.

The term “commercial bribery” typically refers to a situation where a person offers, gives, receives, or solicits something of value to influence the actions of an official or other person in charge of a public or entrepreneurial duty. In this case, the investigator is not attempting to influence a decision or action but is rather threatening the employee to extort money.

The act of blackmail does not fit neatly into obstruction of justice, as it does not directly impede the investigation or the law enforcement process. Perjury involves lying under oath, which does not apply to the situation described.

Understanding these nuances can clarify why deceptive practices is the appropriate designation for the actions taken by the investigator in this scenario.