The Bellefontaine police department is asking that parents educate their children on the dangers of exchanges with unknown individuals on social media.
Sexual predator situations typically begin with the suspect preying on the child and starting an online conversation with them, Bellefontaine police said.
>> Dayton shooting victim to be laid to rest today
After an online conversation, the predator will convince the victim through creative talk to send them sexually explicit photos of themselves.
If the predator receives photos, they will begin threatening to exploit the victim’s photos and spread them online if money is not sent to the suspect within a certain deadline.
>> Walmart removes violent video game displays following Dayton shooting
The Bellefontaine police department advises that parents ask their children if they have ever been asked to do this online.
Police also suggest that parents tell their children to let someone know immediately if they are ever asked to do this in the future.
Local law enforcement should be contacted right away if any proof of these instances is evident, police said.
About the Author