MI man convicted of manipulating children online to send violent, explicit images

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Anthony Reyna Densmore, 47, of Kaleva was sentenced Thursday to 30 years in prison for his role in an online child exploitation ring. Densmore was accused of manipulating children online to capture themselves in violent self-harm or sexually explicit situations.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan, Densmore, also known by his online alias “Rabid,” operated online chat rooms as part of a decentralized network known as 764.

Researchers claim that the 764 group ultimately sought to “corrupt and exploit children in order to destroy civilized society, foment civil unrest, and ultimately collapse the current world order, including the United States government. ”

The group used Discord to organize and share the illegal content.

They targeted, induced and coerced children to engage in self-harm and sexually explicit activities.

Investigators describe Densmore in court documents as “a notorious figure in the most vile groups and darkest corners of the Internet, who created and ran online chat rooms where children were encouraged to cut themselves, bleed for members and publicly engage in depraved sexual acts.” actions. ”

Investigators say they have found evidence of numerous disturbing interactions between Densmore and underage Internet users.

Densmore sent Discord money to a minor to get her to send a nude photo with “Rabid” written on her chest.

After his first devices were seized by investigators, they believe Densmore continued to collect such material on new devices.

At an online press conference Thursday, U.S. Attorney Mark Totten explained that the group targeted young people struggling with mental health issues and encouraged them to self-harm.

A spokesperson for the US Department of Justice added: “Many members of this network have the end goal of forcing their victims to commit suicide via livestream.”

Densmore’s attorney noted in a report filed with the court that he was previously charged in 1996 with attempted criminal sexual conduct.

That case was ultimately dismissed after Densmore completed a year of probation.

Researchers emphasize that similar online groups exist that target vulnerable children.

Parents are being urged to talk openly with their children about online safety, monitor what their children are doing online and be vigilant if unexpected packages arrive at their home.

Densmore and potential associates are accused of mailing some underage members of their chat room razor blades.

He will serve his time in federal prison.

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