Extortion Among Latinx Immigrants Linked to PTSD Symptoms

Research led by Laura Vargas, with contributions from Terry Richmond and Stephen Hargarten, has uncovered significant findings on the experiences of Latinx immigrants facing extortion during their migration to the US. The study revealed that participants paid an average of $804 in extortion, with the most common perpetrators being police and immigration officials across Latin America. The research also found that extortion is associated with a greater severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among the victims. This pioneering study underscores the need to consider extortion as a major stressor in the migrant experience, particularly for adults traveling with children. Learn more about the research here