Brother-sister duo charged with blackmailing gay people in Alabama
A brother and sister in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, have been charged with extortion and making terrorist threats.
Police believe Jvell Hurt, 25, and his sister, Whitney Hurt, 23, may have been involved in extorting money from up to a dozen gay/bi people who they threatened to out to family and co-workers.
Authorities believe there could be victims they are unaware of and urge anyone who may have information to come forward.
The Tuscaloosa News reports the pair shared a home on Dragons Lane, Tuscaloosa. One alleged victim told police that Jvell told him to bring $2,100 to the house or he would “end him.” He also threatened to distribute private photos of the man, and called friends and family of the man, telling them to persuade the man to pay up.
more...
= new reply since forum marked as read
Not all people can afford to be out. There is NO protection for gay people in employment OR housing in Alabama (and several other states), meaning a gay person can lose their home or job, or both. So, don't be so cavalier with statements like "If you're out, you can't be blackmailed.", because, unlike heterosexuals, gay folk don't always have the luxury of job or housing protection, and many would outright be rejected by family and friends.
"who gives a flying fuck what your sexuality is? "
Would you like a run down of recent hate crimes committed against GLBT people? Would you like a review of the onslaught of court cases against us in courts around the country, as well as the Supreme Court? Would you like a break down of places where GLBT people are shunned, refused service, or attacked just for being gay? You may not give a "flying fuck" as long as it isn't "in your face" (how nice 
), but there are many people who do and make our lives miserable. Need another example...RE READ the article above!