A Rockland County middle school student is under arrest for allegedly soliciting explicit photos from fellow students and extorting them with threats unless they sent more compromising content or gift cards. The suspect, a juvenile male student at Fieldstone Middle School, faces felony charges of using a child in a sexual performance, promoting a sexual performance by a child, and possessing a sexual performance of a child.
Police believe there may be hundreds of victims, with so far six male victims identified between the ages of 12 and 14. The suspect allegedly used social media to contact the victims, making them think they were speaking to a female online who was starting a conversation. He then asked for explicit photos or videos, which he claimed would be shared with their friend groups unless more content was sent or gift cards were exchanged.
The investigation revealed that the suspect is local, which is unusual given that most sextortion cases involve out-of-state or international perpetrators. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and have planned a forum at Fieldstone Middle School to discuss the case and provide resources for parents and students.
Experts say this case highlights the dangers of online interactions and urge parents to talk openly with their children about what they see and do online. They suggest limiting temptation by setting parental filters, not allowing connected tech in bedrooms, and having candid conversations with children about online safety.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/fieldstone-middle-school-rockland-county-ny-sextortion-case