CALHOUN COUNTY, MI (WNWN/WTVB) – Calhoun County Prosecutor David Gilbert has issued a lengthy letter to parents and students which warns them about the dangers associated with sexting and sextortion
Gilbert wrote, “Over the years, sexting [the sharing and receiving of sexually explicit messages and nude or partially nude images via computer or cell phone] has been increasing in our society with both adults and minors. For adults, sending these materials has resulted in revenge porn exposure and extortion threats, with people demanding payment or other benefits in exchange for not releasing the material [sextortion]. This conduct is increasingly being directed to our children.”
Gilbert added that sexting between minors has been increasing in schools and is typically seen as harmless and voluntary by the students, but other times it is coerced.
According to Gilbert, “Some children are afraid to come forward with threats after voluntarily taking pictures of themselves and sharing them out of fear of being prosecuted. Some criminals are photoshopping faces of their victims onto naked photos of others. The minor being victimized is not breaking the law but can feel confused because the pictures themselves may be illegal. To be clear, the law is meant to protect minors from those who threaten to release the images, extort the minor or demand more images, unless they themselves are the predators, coercing, extorting, bullying, or sharing pictures of others without the other’s consent.”
Gilbert tells teens that if they shared an intimate picture or video, talk to a trusted adult who can help you. He also urged them to block anyone who makes them feel uncomfortable and do not comply with blackmail demands. Report them and don’t be afraid to speak out.
Minors and adults should remove explicit online images before they are accessed and report sextortion to the police. In addition, delete any explicit messages sent to you right away. If you have questions or concerns, contact your local police agency or the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office.
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