“New Law in Quintana Roo Fights Extortion Without Victims’ Complaints”

Extortion cases in Quintana Roo will now be proactively investigated, eliminating the need for a formal complaint from the victim. This follows the approval of amendments to Article 163 of the Penal Code for the Free and Sovereign State of Quintana Roo by local Congress deputies.

Hugo Alday Nieto, president of the Legislative Justice Committee, clarified that the State's Attorney General's Office pushed for this reform to expedite and enhance the investigation and prosecution of extortionists. The decision was reached after altering the classification of the crime from a property-related offense to one that jeopardizes human lives. Furthermore, the definition of "extortion crime" was broadened to encompass various forms, including the demand for protection money. Henceforth, these situations will also be investigated without requiring a complaint.

Social Media Posts Can Trigger Extortion Investigations

"Regrettably, these criminal activities often go unpunished due to victims' reluctance to report them out of fear. Let's face it: when someone claiming to be part of organized crime extorts your business, you hesitate before contacting the police," said Hugo Alday Nieto. As a result, a reform to the Quintana Roo Penal Code was proposed to allow authorities to investigate extortion based on anonymous tips, social media clues, and media reports.

"This reform also helps tackle a common issue that often led to the release of suspects. Previously, minor errors in victim testimonies, such as the timing of the extortion or the perpetrator's attire, could derail the entire prosecution process. With this amendment, the Prosecutor's Office will have a wider scope of action," emphasized the deputy, whose committee was responsible for formulating this opinion.