15-year-old girl encouraged to self-harm and send nude photos via Discord and Instagram by Byron Center man leading to sexual exploitation charges
Summary
A 15-year-old girl was convinced online by Eric Joseph Terrell, a Byron Center man, to carve his name into her thigh and send him nude photos. Terrell, who communicated with nearly 30 people who identified as under 18, was ordered jailed on March 11 in Grand Rapids after being charged with sexual exploitation of a minor. The FBI alleges he encouraged self-harm and sent explicit messages to minors on Discord and Instagram. The investigation began on January 8 after an anonymous tip reported an adult engaging minors in sexual conversations online. Terrell admitted to the FBI that he asked the 15-year-old for nude photos and that she carved his name into her skin. The case is being reviewed by a federal grand jury, with potential for a 15- to 30-year prison sentence if convicted.
Incident Details
Harms involving the exploitation, abuse, or endangerment of minors, including CSAM and grooming.
Child sexual abuse material — the creation, distribution, or possession of such content.
Online contact by adults seeking to build trust with minors for exploitation.
Sources
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