Man Enticed Maine Kids To Send Explicit Pics Via Instagram

A Texas man who convinced children in Maine to send explicit photos via Instagram is going to prison.

Maine Children Were Enticed by a Texas Man Who Met Them on Instagram

Juan Jose Torres, 27, of Texas was sentenced in a Portland, Maine courtroom on Wednesday to 132 months in prison (11 years), which will be followed by 7 years of supervised release.

The investigation into Torres began in December 2021 when the father of one of the victims contacted police after discovering that his child had sent sexually explicit photos and videos to someone who had befriended the minor on Instagram. According to the U.S. Attorney, District of Maine, both victims were in their early teens at the time of the incident. Both minors were coaxed and coerced into creating and sending graphic and sexually explicit material of themselves to Torres.

Torres Threatened to Harm Himself or Post the Explicit Images Publically

Court documents state that if they didn't do as he instructed, Torres threatened to harm himself or post the images online. When he was arrested in February 2023, officials say Torres told investigators that he was 'just having fun' and that he threatened the young victims because he 'liked the attention from them.' No information has been released about the age, gender, or locations of the children as they are minors and victims of a sexually explicit crime.

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Parents Need to Be Proactive About Warning Children of Dangerous Online Encounters

U.S. Attorney Darcie McElwee says this case could have ended very differently.

Thankfully, a vigilant parent realized what was happening and immediately contacted police, averting what could have been a tragedy and likely preventing additional victims.

She says it's important that parents talk to their children about why it's never safe to share intimate images, videos, or live streams with anyone, even if it's someone they trust.

People can learn more about online enticement, including red flags and risk factors to watch for on the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children website.