High-profile lawyer Michael Avenatti’s appeal to overturn his convictions surrounding his attempt to extort millions from Nike Inc. was dismissed. Arguments hinged on claims of insufficient evidence upheld by the Second Circuit, rejecting Avenatti’s plea to overturn the verdict.
Avenatti’s contention lay in the prosecution’s failure to demonstrate the “wrongfulness” element related to his extortion crimes as well as issues of intent and bribery involved in the honest-services fraud. The appeals court found adequate evidence supporting the jury’s decision, thereby affirming the original verdict.
In cases involving reputational threat, the court clarified that the “wrongfulness” component of extortion requires comprehensive evaluation of both the threat used and the demand placed. The court maintained its approval of the trial court’s restitution award to Nike, summing up to $259,800. For more detailed insights, read the original article here.