TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras (AP) — Alejandro Duron’s life changed in minutes when the envelope appeared under his front door.

The note inside demanded that the 34-year-old systems analyst pay $2,500 for the privilege of remaining in the house in a high-end neighborhood. It detailed Duron’s daily routine so he would know the threat was serious. “If you don’t pay, we will kill you,” the message warned.