C.G.S. § 53a-192 Coercion

General Description

Under Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-192, coercion occurs when someone compels another person to engage in conduct, or refrain from conduct, by threatening them with harm. The law is broad and applies to a wide range of situations, from domestic disputes to business dealings. What matters most is that the accused is alleged to have used threats to deprive someone of their free will.

Even though coercion is not as commonly charged as larceny or assault, it is still a serious offense that can carry lasting consequences, including jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record.

Elements of the Offense

To secure a conviction for coercion under C.G.S. § 53a-192, the State must prove that the defendant:

1. Compelled or induced another person to act (or not act).
2. Used threats to achieve that goal.
3. The threats involved at least one of the following:
   • Accusing someone of a crime.
   • Exposing a secret, true or false, that would subject the person to ridicule or contempt.
   • Causing injury to a person, property, or reputation.
   • Using or abusing official power.

Detailed Examples of CoercionExample 1 – Workplace Threat

A supervisor in Stamford tells an employee, “If you don’t work overtime without pay, I’ll tell everyone you were arrested for DUI last year.” The employee feels pressured to comply because the supervisor has real knowledge of the prior arrest. This is coercion because the supervisor is using a threat to control the employee’s behavior.

Example 2 – Relationship Threat

During a breakup in Norwalk, a partner tells their ex, “If you leave me, I’ll post your private photos online.” This is classic coercion because the accused is using the threat of public embarrassment to force the victim to stay in the relationship.

Example 3 – Business Rivalry

A Bridgeport business owner tells a competitor, “If you don’t sign over your client list, I’ll spread false rumors that you’re committing fraud.” The alleged victim feels compelled to act out of fear of reputational damage. This qualifies as coercion since the threat is unlawful and designed to control conduct.

Example 4 – Innocent, Not Coercion

A Greenwich landlord tells a tenant, “If you don’t pay your rent, I will begin eviction proceedings.” While this may sound intimidating, it is not coercion because the landlord is threatening to use a lawful remedy. The difference is that coercion requires an unlawful threat, not a legitimate legal action.

Defenses to Coercion

• Lack of intent– The prosecution must prove the defendant intended to compel action through threats.
• Legitimate legal threat– Threatening to file a lawsuit or pursue lawful remedies is not coercion.
• Insufficient evidence– Many coercion allegations come down to “he said, she said.” If there’s no corroboration, the case may not hold up in court.
• False allegations– Coercion charges can arise during contentious divorces, custody disputes, or business rivalries where accusations are exaggerated or fabricated.

Penalties for Coercion

Coercion is a Class A misdemeanor in Connecticut. Penalties can include:

• Up to 1 year in jail.
• Up to a $2,000 fine.
• Probation with conditions such as counseling, community service, or no-contact orders.

If the coercion is linked to other charges (such as assault, larceny, or extortion), penalties can escalate quickly.

Related Offenses

• C.G.S. § 53a-119 – Larceny by Extortion
• C.G.S. § 53a-61 – Assault in the Third Degree
• C.G.S. § 53a-70 – Sexual Assault in the First Degree (if coercion leads to sexual conduct)

FAQs About Coercion in Connecticut1. Is Coercion the Same as Blackmail?

Not exactly, but they are similar. Blackmail usually involves demanding money, while coercion can involve any threat to force behavior.

2. Can I Be Charged With Coercion for Threatening to Sue Someone?

No. Threatening to take legitimate legal action is not coercion. The law targets unlawful threats.

3. Is Coercion Always domestic violence? No. Coercion can involve family members, but it can also occur in workplaces, businesses, or between strangers.

4. What Happens if the Alleged Victim Gave in to the Threat?

It doesn’t matter whether they complied or not. The crime is in making the unlawful threat to compel behavior.

5. Can Coercion Charges Be Dismissed?

Yes. If the evidence is weak or if you qualify for a diversionary program such as Accelerated Rehabilitation, your case could be dismissed.

6. What’s the Difference Between Coercion and Extortion?

Extortion usually involves obtaining property or money. Coercion can involve any type of conduct, not just financial gain.

7. How Can a Lawyer Defend Me Against Coercion Charges?

By challenging intent, exposing false allegations, or showing that the alleged threat was actually a lawful action (such as a warning about a lawsuit). Also, this offense is eligible for the Accelerated Rehabilitation Program (AR) for first time offenders.

8. Will Coercion Stay on My Record Forever?

If convicted, yes — it will remain on your permanent record. But diversionary programs or dismissals can keep your record clean.

Call Allan F. Friedman, Criminal Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with coercion under C.G.S. § 53a-192, don’t take it lightly. Even though it’s a misdemeanor, a conviction can damage your reputation, employment, and family life.

📞 Call me today at (203) 357-5555 or contact me online for a free consultation. Let’s protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

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