It wasn't the only factor in play, there were many that led to this decision.

Lets weigh up the options with regard to the blackmail

1)  Fight it constantly, never get to where you want to be
2)  Pay them off to "keep the peace" and dig a bigger hole
3)  Remove the ammo from the gun and deal with them in a legal manner

I chose 3, regardless of claims accuracy, as would any sensible individual.