GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Kent County deputies say a 14-year-old boy from Plainfield Township is facing charges after allegedly pressuring other teenagers to send inappropriate images.

Officials arrested the boy on Monday. They believe he targeted nearly 17 teenagers on social media, then pressured them to send illicit photos. He faces multiple charges including three counts of child sexually abusive activity, two counts of using a computer to commit a crime and one count of possession of child sexually abusive material.

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The sheriff’s office emphasized the dangers of sextortion and online bullying, saying these are not faceless acts.

“They happen right here within our community,” deputies said. “We encourage anyone experiencing pressure to send illicit images or being bullied to contact a trusted adult; whether it’s a parent, teacher, School Resource Officer, or family friend.”