Blackmail?

[cerealmbp]

My mother is having an affair with a married man. They made a video recording of themselves having sex. I found this in my mother's bedroom and copied it. I contacted the man by letter suggesting he ended the affair. I made no threat but said in the letter that I would "hate for anyone else to see the DVD". I also said that if he contacted my mother about this the "consequences would be on his hands". He did contact my mother. I now want to send a copy of this DVD to his friends and possibly family. Where do I stand on this legally? I made no direct threat in the letter and made sure it was all implied. If I did send out copies of this factual event, would I be legally accountable to any crime as it was with intent to cause emotional damage? Also is the letter itself classed as illegal blackmail?

This is regarding UK law.

best to avoid that--you did make some threat and it is close to the line

also there are all sorts of issues about making that copy of a personal tape--that was not yours to use and copy or even to see

I doubt in the end you would have any serious criminal law issue but frankly I would advise you not take the chance--there are better ways to deal with this

[sunlover]

You are placing yourself in line of fire from several fronts.

1. Your Mother. This could have a serious effect your your relationship with her
2. The law. If this man pursues legal action you could face criminal or Civil penalties
3. Your Father. See Mother comment
4. This mans family and friends
5. Your Mother's family and friends

I understand your concern and feelings my Mother had an affair while married to my Father. They were married over 25 years at time. This is not your issue. You stand to lose much more than you will ever gain. Talk to your Mother share your feelings on this with her. Bottom line its her life and her choices not yours.

maybe you should mind your own business and stay out of your mother's life.