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This is yet another heartbreaking case of the exploitation and extortion that tragically targets our young people. This disturbing trend has been growing rapidly and poses a significant threat to the well-being of countless youths across the nation. Alabama, in particular, has been severely affected, with the state ranking among the hardest hit by such heinous crimes. The impact on communities and families has been devastating, leaving lasting scars on those involved.

FBI officials are warning parents in Alabama about this threat facing our children.

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Investigators refer to it as "sextortion" and it involves a predator luring a minor to create and then send sexually explicit images or a video.

The FBI warns that "sextortion" can begin on any site, app, or platform.

The FBI warns that two types of "sextortion" exist. An additional type of "sextortion" called "financial sextortion" is also on the rise in Alabama and around the country.

After this the adult predator threatens the child and claims they will release the material unless the child continues producing videos and images.

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The FBI says they have seen a huge increase in the number of these cases, according to FBI.gov.

One Alabama family has already dealt with "sextortion" and it led to the very tragic death of a youth.

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As reported by WBRC-TV, the family lost their child to suicide after dealing with "sextortion".

Brian Montgomery is a grieving dad who now tries to get the word out to other Alabama parents before it's too late.

The Montgomery family lost their 16-year-old son Walker, after he responded to a chat request on Instagram believing he was talking to an attractive female.

That quickly, this young Alabama teen was the target of "sextortion".

It is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat this epidemic. Perhaps now, with leadership at both the national and state levels—through the concerted efforts of President Trump and Alabama’s own Senator Tommy Tuberville—there is hope for meaningful change. Their combined influence and commitment could lead to the implementation of stronger laws, improved mental health support for victims, and more aggressive actions to identify and prosecute those responsible for preying on our youth.

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