What is a key element of extortion?

A key element of extortion is the use of a threat to obtain money or property from another individual. This element is crucial because extortion inherently involves coercion; the act of threatening someone creates pressure that forces the victim to comply with the demands of the extorter. The threat can take many forms, including violence, exposure of damaging information, or any other means that instills fear and compels the victim to act against their will.

The other options do not capture the concept of extortion effectively. For instance, the removal of property without threats implicates theft rather than extortion, as there is no coercive element involved. Consent from the property owner also negates the nature of extortion, as extortion relies on the victim's unwillingness to comply due to the threat. Additionally, joint ownership of the demanded property does not pertain to extortion; rather, it suggests a legal entitlement rather than coercive action. Thus, the correct understanding of extortion revolves around the presence of a threat that forces compliance in obtaining money or property.