Moneta man charged with child exploitation, stalking in FBI investigation
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — A man from Moneta is facing several charges after he allegedly stalked and played a leadership role to a group of individuals that allegedly extort and “swat” individuals online.
On June 13, a federal grand jury in Roanoke returned an indictment for 26-year-old Evan Strauss, aka “Reaper” and “Kobe Deonsons,” for stalking, coercion and enticement, possession of child pornography, and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.
According to court documents, on Nov. 1, 2023, Strauss met a teenage girl from Wyoming online and began to engage in regular communication. Over the course of several months, he allegedly used several interactive computer services and other systems to harass, intimidate, and place her under surveillance.
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The United States Attorney’s Office says in one instance, the teen refused to provide nude photos and videos of herself and Strauss allegedly became controlling. He later discovered her address and allegedly threatened to kill her, her family, and her cat. In response, the office says the girl complied with his request among other things.
In January of 2024, agents with the FBI interviewed Strauss and searched his home. During the search, investigators allegedly found evidence and confiscated an iPhone that contained multiple videos and pictures of young girls.
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The attorney’s office says Strauss allegedly admitted to one of his online usernames, “Reaper,” and claimed to be an active member of a group of approximately 200 people, known as the “Community.” He also allegedly operated a sub-group within the group known as, “Purgatory.”
According to Strauss, the “Community” allegedly participates in a variety of criminal activities online, including placing swatting calls, hacking, and blackmailing individuals for money. He said the group also allegedly extorts women and girls to obtain explicit photos or videos of themselves and to commit acts of self-harm.
This case remains under investigation by the FBI.
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