⏱ 4 min read
A Snapchat predator lurked in the shadows, preying on 41 vulnerable girls from Virginia. Malachi Morgan Thomas, 24, of Woodbridge, used a hacked account to manipulate and exploit the minors, ages 12 to 17.
Between March 1, 2020, and October 1, 2020, Thomas coerced the girls into creating and sending him child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and engaging in live video calls. He threatened them, claiming to be the leader of a ‘criminal organization’ and warning them that their safety depended on compliance.
Thomas even traveled to another state to meet one of his victims in person, where he engaged in sex and recorded it. Police discovered the abuse after seizing his phone during an investigation into an altercation.
On October 1, 2020, Fairfax County Police arrested Thomas on charges of rape and sodomy of two minors. A second phone was found at his residence, containing dozens of images of child abuse.
Thomas will face prison time for his heinous crimes. The plea deal is a dark reminder that predators like Thomas can hide in plain sight, using social media to exploit the most vulnerable among us.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: Virginia
- Location: VA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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