Florida authorities announced that 29‑year‑old Justin Adkins of West Warwick, Rhode Island, was arrested and will be extradited to Florida on charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and coercing the production of child sexual abuse material.
How the Abuse Unfolded
Officials say Adkins first contacted a minor in 2024 through the online game Fortnite. He exchanged phone numbers on the platform and later moved the conversation to Snapchat.
According to investigators, Adkins convinced the victim they were in a romantic relationship and pressured the child to create and send hundreds of pornographic pictures and videos. He also sent adult pornographic material with instructions for the victim to recreate the content.
The Florida Attorney General’s Office reported that Adkins used gifts, including a new iPhone and in‑game currency on Fortnite and Roblox, to manipulate the child.
Law Enforcement Response
Attorney General James Uthmeier thanked the Green Cove Springs Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Office of Statewide Prosecution for their work, stating the predator “is in cuffs and will be extradited from Rhode Island to face justice in Florida.”
Uthmeier warned that online platforms enable predators to reach children across state lines, saying, “It’s a place where a stranger, an adult in another state, can get access to your little girl.”
Former Secret Service agent Bobby McDonald said cases like this follow a familiar pattern and emphasized the need for parents to monitor their children’s online activities.
Legal Charges
Adkins faces multiple counts, including using a child in a sexual performance and 13 counts of unlawful possession of materials depicting a child’s sexual performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the suspect and what charges does he face?
The suspect is 29‑year‑old Justin Adkins. He is charged with sexual exploitation of a minor, coercing the production of child sexual abuse material, using a child in a sexual performance, and 13 counts of unlawful possession of child sexual performance material.
How did the suspect initially contact the victim?
Adkins first interacted with the victim in 2024 on the online game Fortnite, later exchanging phone numbers and continuing communication through Snapchat.
What actions did law enforcement take to apprehend the suspect?
Adkins was arrested in West Warwick, Rhode Island, by local authorities in coordination with the Green Cove Springs Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Office of Statewide Prosecution. He will be extradited to Florida to face the charges.
What steps do you think families can take to protect children from online predators?
