19 Year Old Found Guilty of Extortion and Violation of Probation

Plantation Key, FL — The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office announced today that Jarek Widelski, 19, has been sentenced following a plea resolving charges stemming from threats made during a domestic dispute, as well as a violation of probation.

Widelski entered a plea of no contest to Extortion, a second-degree felony. Circuit Judge James Morgan adjudicated him guilty and sentenced him to 48 months of probation with a special condition that Widelski must enter and successfully complete a behavioral health treatment program. He was further ordered to surrender all firearms and ammunition, report to probation within 48 hours of release, and comply with all standard conditions of supervision. The Court also ordered payment of $933.00 in court costs and fines. The Court indicated that Widelski may be eligible for early termination of probation after 24 months if he remains compliant with all conditions and commits no new violations.

The charges stem from an incident in Key Largo involving a dispute between Widelski and his mother over the use of a vehicle. During the disagreement, Widelski sent a series of messages that escalated into threats to damage property if his demands were not met. Widelski also sent an image appearing to show a firearm; however, it was later determined to be an airsoft-style weapon into which Widelski had forced a magazine with 9mm cartridges.

Law enforcement responded and determined that damage had occurred inside the residence. After executing a search warrant, deputies of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office recovered the modified airsoft weapon in addition to dozens of rounds of ammunition of various types. At the time of the incident, Widelski was on probation for a prior misdemeanor charge. His conduct constituted a violation of that probation and he was sentenced to 71 days in county jail.

Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield stated, “This is an opportunity for the defendant to get the help he needs and address the issues that led to this situation. That is the goal of probation to promote accountability, stability, and prevent future incidents. The conviction in this case likewise ensures that going forward this individual cannot legally own a firearm due to his conduct.”

Assistant State Attorney Trey Evans prosecuted the case on behalf of the State.