is anyone following the sextrortion case in Michigan? Trigger warning! Suicide, sexual extortion

[CLB1125]

I try not to watch the news. It’s depressing to say the least. But I am following the case of a teenager in MI who got caught up in a sextortion case with some Nigerians. He thought he was talking to some teenage boy. And got persuaded to send pictures. Then they started blackmailing him for money. When he couldn’t get anymore money without having to go to his parents, he was so ashamed he killed himself. He was a bright young man, on the school football team. It amazes me because he lived in a small little town but the fbi got involved and they got national org involved. Turns out it was two brothers from Nigeria. They have expedited to the USA to stand trial. I heard this morning bond was denied. What is wrong with people? This boy had his whole life ahead of him. He was so embarrassed and ashamed he took his own life rather than face his family and friends. My heart breaks for his parents and for him. The weight he carried alone. It’s just awful. 💔

[Jennblank7734]

Oh, he was in school so a teenager too. That is very sad. I remember we had multiple meetings to attend at my boys school about online predators. I can remember what kids were like at that age and also how people are quick to judge someone.

[CLB1125 in reply to Jennblank7734]

I think he was a junior in high school.

[designguy]

Yes, it's an awful heartbreaking story. I've watched some of the busting scammers shows on youtube, it's an awful thing that is causing tremendous harm to a lot of people. It pays to be cautious about anything online or texted anymore.

[CLB1125 in reply to designguy]

Parents need to be more aware of what their children are doing online.

[designguy in reply to CLB1125]

They do and keep them selves up to speed on the latest scams, it's unfortunate how creative the scammers are. I know of a couple of adults that came close to being scammed.

[Starrlight]

🥲 🙏

[KarenLopez]

Yeah, I've been keeping up with that sextortion case in Michigan. It's really heavy stuff, and my heart goes out to everyone involved. It's scary how something like this can happen to anyone. If you're worried about anything similar, I found this site that has some helpful info: digitalinvestigation.com/bl... . They talk a lot about how to deal with online blackmail and what steps you can take to protect yourself. It’s definitely a good resource to check out. Stay safe, everyone, and remember to reach out if you need support. This stuff is tough, but we're all in this together.