The Prescott Valley Police Department is reminding the public of the dangers of sextortion.
Sextortion is a crime that occurs when an adult persuades another person and sometimes a person under the age of 18; a juvenile, to share sexual pictures or perform sex acts while using a computer or webcam. Later, that adult will blackmail that person by claiming to post their nude photos to family and friends if money is not received. This has resulted in episodes of depression, self-harm, and even suicide.
Sextortion can start on any online site where people meet and communicate, such as a chat room or gaming site. The suspect may lure the victim into believing he/she wants to start a relationship, or he may just start threatening the victim to share nude photos or sexual acts. Shortly thereafter, the victim will be harassed or threatened for money, gift cards, ZELLE payments, etc.
If anyone you know, including a juvenile, has been a victim of Sextortion, they should immediately call local law enforcement. You should also report it to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or online at https://tips.fbi.gov.