Police search for online predator

Dec 11, 2018 at 09:53 pm by Observer-Review


Police search for online predator ADVERTISEMENT

Police search for online predator

YATES COUNTY--Police are investigating online incidents that have occurred in Yates County relating to a person or persons attempting to blackmail local students.
The Penn Yan Police issued a news release saying, "The Penn Yan Police Department is aware of an individual or group of individuals who are attempting to gain nude images of local school-aged girls. The individual is contacting girls via Instagram and Facebook and requesting nude photos. If a girl sends a photo the individual requests more and threatens to post the original photo if more are not provided."
The police continue, "In some instances the individual claims to already have nude photos of the girl and demands more by threatening to release the ones they have. Police encourage parents to talk with their children about the dangers of sending any photos like this. The Penn Yan Police Department and the New York State Police are investigating this matter."
The Penn Yan Central School District posted a similar release saying, "We recently have been made aware of several students within Yates County that have been victimized by an online predator. This person(s) has created numerous social media accounts, friended students and proceeded to obtain very personal and private images and information about these students."
Dundee Superintendent Kelly Houck also warned parents and students to be vigilant online. "Many students do not understand the fact that once you hit the send button, the information, pictures and posts, no longer belong just to them," said Houck in a statement. "Relatives, friends, colleges, employers and strangers may have access to the pictures and information and can pass it along."
Houck added, "We ask that you help and support by reinforcing the importance of responsible posting and responding to social media with your children, by monitoring their online interactions at home. We strongly encourage you and your child to report anything they may see that is concerning to them or to you."
Websites like www.netsmartz.org/NetSmartzKids or www.commonsensemedia.org/privacy-and-internet-safety were recommended for safety ideas.
Anyone with information or who may be a victim are asked to call police at 315-536-4426.

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