17-year-old California teen dies by suicide after falling victim to online sextortion scheme
Summary
A 17-year-old San Jose, California teen, Ryan Last, died by suicide after falling victim to an online sextortion scheme. Ryan believed he was communicating with a 20-year-old woman but was instead contacted by a man and his accomplices who threatened to share an intimate photo unless Ryan paid them money. He sent $150 and left a suicide note expressing his embarrassment and fear. Four men from the Ivory Coast were later arrested for their involvement in the international sextortion scheme that targeted Ryan and thousands of others. The FBI reported over 54,000 victims of sextortion in 2024, with a significant increase in cases involving boys aged 14 to 17. Ryan’s mother, Pauline Stuart, now travels nationwide to raise awareness about online dangers and the importance of open communication with children.
Incident Details
Content or interactions that contribute to self-harm, suicidal ideation, or eating disorders.
Content or contact linked to suicidal ideation, attempts, or completion.
Sources
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