Man Threatened 13-Year-Old, Demanded ‘Explicit’ Photos Online: Cheshire Police

CHESHIRE, CT — A Pennsylvania man has been arrested in connection with an investigation into the enticement of a 13-year-old Cheshire resident through an online platform in 2023, according to police.

Police launched an investigation on Nov. 19, 2023, into a report involving a 13-year-old child who had been “threatened online by an unknown individual demanding explicit photographs through a video game platform,” according to a news release.

“Detectives, working in partnership with the FBI Crimes Against Children Task Force, conducted an extensive investigation involving forensic analysis, subpoenas, search warrants, and interviews,” police wrote in the news release.

Tyrell Moore, 20, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was identified as the suspect, according to police.

Police said Moore was arrested April 9 with assistance from the FBI and the Philadelphia Police Department and was later extradited to Connecticut on May 7.

Moore was charged with risk of injury to a minor, enticing a minor, second-degree threatening, and unlawful dissemination of an intimate image. He was held in lieu of a $125,000 bond.

Cheshire police are reminding parents and guardians “about the importance of monitoring children’s online activity and maintaining open communication about internet safety.”

“Many online platforms, including gaming systems, social media applications, and messaging services, allow strangers direct access to children,” police wrote. “Offenders often attempt to build trust with minors before engaging in manipulation, threats, or requests for explicit content.”

Read more from the police department below:

Parents are encouraged to:

• Monitor online communications and gaming activity
• Discuss online safety and privacy with children
• Be aware of apps and platforms children are using
• Encourage children to report suspicious or threatening behavior immediately
• Utilize parental controls and privacy settings when available

These predators exist across every socioeconomic background and community. They are persistent, manipulative, and actively seek opportunities to exploit children online. As parents and guardians, vigilance, communication, and awareness remain some of the most effective tools in protecting children from online exploitation.