The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has announced the indictment of Bryan R. Chapman, a 62-year-old resident of Missouri. Chapman, a former Vice President of a nationwide business in the Middle District of Pennsylvania, faces federal extortion charges.
Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus stated that the indictment accuses Chapman of attempting to extort his former employer after being terminated. He allegedly threatened to reveal that the company had misappropriated trade secrets from a supplier unless he received six months' severance pay, amounting to over $100,000. The company refused his demands.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is handling prosecution duties.
If convicted on extortion charges under federal law, Chapman could face up to 20 years in prison, supervised release following imprisonment, and financial penalties. Sentencing would be determined by a judge based on federal statutes and guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments are merely allegations and those charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
