High School Student Accused Of Sextortion Of Minor In Marin County: Police

NOVATO, CA — A 13-year-old Novato resident told police their photos were taken and someone was threatening to release them if they did not receive sex acts, the Novato Police said on Thursday.

The 13-year-old reported to the Novato Police Department that a suspect has stolen their private photographs stored on social media, police said.

Officers said the suspect demanded sex acts from the victim and said if they didn't comply he would share their private pictures.

"We applaud the young victim for their courage to report these crimes," police said. "According to the FBI, Sextortion can start on any site, app, messaging platform, or game where people meet and communicate. In some cases, the first contact from the criminal will be a threat. The person may claim to already have a revealing picture or video that will be shared if the victim does not send more pictures."

The NPD identified the suspect as a high school aged Novato resident who was on probation, police said.

A search found digital evidence linking the suspect to these crimes and they were booked into the Marin County Juvenile Hall for possession of child pornography, extortion, contacting a minor for sex acts, impersonating another person with intent to defraud and a probation violation, police said.

"If this has happened to you or someone you know, let us help to stop the harassment, arrest the person behind the crime and help you get the support you need," police said.

To report a sextortion incident, call the Novato Police Department at 415-897-4361.