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Extortion Scheme Lands Kentucky Man in Prison
A brutal extortion scheme has landed a Kentucky man behind bars. Justin Howard, 25, was sentenced to 21 months in custody, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $53,625.25 for his role in the extortion scheme.
According to investigators, Howard made telephone calls and sent written messages to a South Dakota man between August 2011 and July 2012. In these communications, Howard threatened to reveal information about the victim’s sexuality unless the victim paid money to Howard.
The victim, in an effort to silence Howard, sent numerous payments totaling $53,625.25. However, the victim eventually reported the crime to law enforcement, leading to Howard’s arrest.
The case was investigated by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson and Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
Howard was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal after his sentencing. The sentence serves as a reminder that extortion will not be tolerated in our society.
The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, has spoken out about the trauma caused by Howard’s actions. ‘I was threatened and blackmailed into paying thousands of dollars,’ the victim stated. ‘I’m just glad that justice has been served.’
With his sentence, Howard has been held accountable for his crimes. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Sentence Details: 21 months in custody, 1 year of supervised release, and restitution of $53,625.25.
Case History: Howard was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2012, and pleaded guilty to the offense on April 22, 2013.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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