What Is Extortion?

Extortion is a serious criminal offence that involves using threats, intimidation, or violence to force someone to give up something of value—such as money, property, or services—against their will. The threat doesn’t have to be physical; it can also involve damaging someone’s reputation, business, or personal relationships.

How Extortion Typically Appears in Our Community:

• Blackmail: Threatening to reveal private or embarrassing information unless demands are met.
• Cyber-extortion: Using online threats, such as ransomware or hacking, to demand payment or access.
• Threats of violence or property damage: Forcing someone to comply by threatening harm to them, their family, or their business.
• Organized crime schemes: Demanding “protection money” from business owners to prevent vandalism or violence.

How is AbbyPD actively working to detect, disrupt, and prevent extortion threats in the community?

AbbyPD has launched Operation Community Shield, a dedicated internal task force formed in response to a rise in extortion-related threats and violence. This initiative includes:

1. Reassignment of experienced officers from across the department, including major crimes, forensics, surveillance, and crime analysis units.
2. Rapid response teams on standby to address emerging extortion cases immediately.
3. Active investigations into all reported incidents, whether violent or non-violent (e.g., threatening messages, phone calls, or letters).
4. Collaboration with provincial and federal agencies, with AbbyPD officers serving on the Provincial Extortion Task Force to ensure strong local representation.
5. Community engagement, urging residents to report suspicious activity and share information to support investigations.
6. Commitment to transparency, with regular updates and public communication to maintain trust and safety.

Reporting an Extortion to AbbyPD

If you or someone you know is experiencing extortion, please report it—just like you would any other crime.

Here’s how:

• If it's an emergency, dial 9-1-1 immediately
• General Reporting Non-emergency - Call 604-859-5225
• Non-emergency Text ABBYPD (222973)

Your report helps keep our community safe. Don’t hesitate—we’re here to help.

Why Public Awareness Matters?

Understanding extortion helps individuals and communities recognize the signs early and report suspicious activity. It also empowers victims to seek help and ensures law enforcement can respond effectively. Community vigilance and cooperation are key to preventing and addressing this crime.

Be Part of the Solution with AbbyPD's safety initiatives:

• Block Watch - help monitor and report suspicious activity
• Citizens Patrol - volunteer to be extra eyes and ears

Learn more here: Community Policing Programs

Extortion FAQ's

1. I received an extortion message asking for money - should I report it?

• Absolutely. Save the message and report it to AbbyPD. It could be part of a larger scam or extortion attempt.

2. Will I get in trouble if I paid someone before realizing it was extortion?

• No. You're not at fault. Reporting it helps protect others and may assist in recovering losses.

3. Can businesses be victims of extortion?

• Yes. Businesses may be targeted for “protection” payments, threats of damage, or reputational harm.