Q: I am threatened and blackmailed by someone in another country. Can US police do anything about it?
My boyfriend living in another country has been blackmailing me with revenge porn and has threatened my life several times. I have lots of proof of this in text messages. When we met he also abused me. I don't know if going to the police will help because I have heard they have no jurisdiction in that country. Could they do something about it? If yes, what can they do?
A:
The state has jurisdiction when its citizens are harmed or threatened. The more likely reason for this response is that they do not want to get involved because he is overseas and it takes a lot of effort to get him. Does he ever travel back to the states?
Here is a chart outlining the status of "revenge porn" across the country: http://kellywarnerlaw.com/revenge-porn-laws-50-state-guide/
You may also have civil options, which may be better because your lawyer can be in control and you don't have to rely on the police. Reach out to a lawyer or organization that focuses on this issue and ask them for a free consultation.
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