Lobbyist Charged with Extorting $500,000 from Former Client

Joshua Nass accused of recruiting an 'enforcer' to compel payment from client and his son

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:43pm

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Federal prosecutors in New York have charged lobbyist Joshua Nass with attempted extortion, alleging he recruited a confidential witness to force a former client and the client's son to pay him $500,000. Nass had previously worked on behalf of an ex-nursing home operator who was pardoned by former President Donald Trump.

Why it matters

The case highlights the potential for abuse of power and unethical tactics within the lobbying industry, where individuals may leverage their connections and influence to unlawfully extract payments from clients. It raises concerns about the integrity of the political process and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures.

The details

According to court documents, Nass agreed in December 2025 to provide lobbying services to a client, who signed an agreement to pay Nass $600,000. When the client's son could not pay the full amount, Nass allegedly recruited a confidential witness to extort the payment, including discussions of assaulting the son or forcing him into a car with masked men and threatening him.

  • In January 2026, Nass recruited and agreed to pay the confidential witness to force the former client and intimidate his son into paying the $500,000.
  • On March 14, 2026, Nass was arrested outside his New York hotel, the same day he had expected to meet with the confidential witness.

The players

Joshua Nass

A 34-year-old lobbyist from Charleston, South Carolina, who was arrested and charged with attempted extortion.

Joseph Schwartz

An ex-nursing home operator who was pardoned by former President Donald Trump and was listed as a client on a lobbying disclosure form filed by Nass.

John Doe 1

The former client of Nass who was allegedly extorted for $500,000.

John Doe 2

The son of Nass' former client who was allegedly targeted in the extortion scheme.

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What they’re saying

“Rather than honestly representing his client, Joshua Nass allegedly chose to shake him down by hiring an enforcer to extort payment.”

— James Barnacle Jr., Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's New York Field Office (U.S. Attorney's Office Press Release)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Joshua Nass to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the potential for abuse of power and unethical tactics within the lobbying industry, where individuals may leverage their connections and influence to unlawfully extract payments from clients. It raises concerns about the integrity of the political process and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures.