US Navy captain convicted of cyberstalking and identity theft

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) – U.S. Navy Captain Theodore E. Essenfeld was sentenced Friday to 37 months in prison for cyberstalking and identity theft, the Justice Department announced.

Underscoring the seriousness of cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said, “Today’s sentencing marks the end of this perpetrator’s cyber terror. Cyberstalking is not just an annoying or harmless prank; it is a serious crime with devastating consequences.” McGrath explained that the victim’s ordeal has had a profound impact on her life, and emphasized the need for justice in such cases.

During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Robert S. Huie commended the victim for her courage in coming forward, acknowledging the emotional toll the harassment took on her.

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Essenfeld was convicted by a federal jury in June after a four-day trial during which prosecutors presented a disturbing array of evidence. They revealed that Essenfeld had created fake Facebook, LinkedIn and email accounts using his ex-girlfriend’s name and photos without her knowledge. Under the guise of his victim, he posted explicit content and interacted with unsuspecting Facebook users, further blurring the lines of consent and identity.

The investigation showed that Essenfeld’s actions were not just isolated incidents. He integrated the imposter accounts with the victim’s personal and professional life, interacting with her potential employer and former colleagues. Despite the victim reporting the impersonation to Facebook more than 400 times, the platform failed to remove the account, which appeared more legitimate than the victim’s real profile.

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Even after he was arrested and released on bail, Essenfeld continued his campaign of harassment by creating additional “fan club” pages on multiple social media platforms, perpetuating the cycle of torment. This prompted Judge Huie to revoke his bond ahead of the trial, leading to Friday’s sentencing.

“Sir. Essenfeld betrayed his oath to the Navy and will be held accountable for his calculated and brutal campaign to stalk, harass and intimidate his victim,” said Nicholas Carter, Special Agent in Charge of the NCIS Southwest Field Office. He reiterated that cyberstalking is a crime that has no place in the military or society.

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