Minors lured with fake social media profiles arrested for sexual assault

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CHIARI - Minors lured via fake social media profiles, one arrest in Brescia for sexual assault, child pornography, and impersonation. Carabinieri officers from the Chiari unit have executed a precautionary measure, issued by the Brescia preliminary investigations judge, at the request of the prosecutor's office, against a man allegedly responsible for the crimes of sexual assault, child pornography, and impersonation. According to the investigation, the suspect allegedly implemented a proven ploy to approach minors online, exploiting fake social media profiles. Specifically, using a fake account belonging to an unsuspecting girl the same age as the victims, he sent them seductive messages and photographs of young girls in an attempt to gain their trust and trick them into sending sexually explicit material. The investigation began following a report from a parent who, alarmed by his child, discovered the attempt by a self-proclaimed girl who was requesting intimate images.

It remains important for families to be vigilant about the use of social networks

Technical investigations and subsequent investigative activities have allowed the Carabinieri to identify at least 16 minors contacted in similar ways. The man is currently under house arrest. The investigation, which is still ongoing, aims to verify the possible existence of additional victims. Investigators urge anyone who has received suspicious messages or believes they have been contacted in similar ways to contact law enforcement immediately, also to protect any other minors involved. It remains important for families to monitor their minors' use of social media ; any anomalous or suspicious behavior should be promptly reported. The suspect's criminal responsibility will, however, only be determined following a trial, with a final criminal sentence, according to a Carabinieri press release.