Prince George's Co. Police Report Rise In Sexual Extortion Cases With Nude, Graphic Photos

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Detectives are warning Prince George's residents about an increase in extortion cases involving blackmailing victims by threatening to share nude or sexually explicit images.

In most of these cases, a suspect and the victim meet through social media. The suspect pretends to be interested in a romantic or sexual relationship with the victim and persuades the victim to send nude or sexually explicit images. Once the suspect receives the photos, they threaten to share them publicly unless the victim pays them money, the police department explained.

So far this year, the Prince George's County Police Department has received 19 reports of these types of extortions, but believe the total is closer to 30, officials said. Last year in 2023, there were 23 reported cases. In 2022, there were just two of these types of cases reported.

"Victims of this crime often feel embarrassed or are afraid to ask for help. The PGPD reminds all residents that we are dedicated to supporting victims and investigating these crimes. Complying with the suspect’s demands for money rarely stops the harassment," the police department stated.

The police department said residents should follow these tips if they or someone they know in Prince George’s County is being extorted:

• Call 911 to file a police report
• Report the suspect’s social media account through the platform they contacted you on
• Save the suspect’s profile information and messages to help police identify them
• Block the suspect from continuing to contact you