Rhode Island Man Arrested for Exploiting Minors Online via Fortnite, Roblox & Snapchat

Rhode Island Man Accused of Sexually Exploiting Minor Online

WEST WARWICK, R.I. — A West Warwick man has been arrested and extradited to Florida, accused of using online gaming platforms and social media to sexually exploit a minor. Justin Adkins, 29, faces charges related to sexual exploitation and coercing the production of child sexual abuse material, according to Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier.

“Parents need to wake up to the disturbing reality that we are seeing online, because yet again, we caught a child predator using Snapchat and Roblox to groom and exploit a child,” Uthmeier said in a statement. “Thanks to the Green Cove Springs PD, FDLE, and our Office of Statewide Prosecution, the child predator is in cuffs and will be extradited from Rhode Island to face justice in Florida.”

Authorities allege that Adkins initially connected with the victim in 2024 through the online game Fortnite. The interaction progressed to exchanging phone numbers and continued communication via Snapchat. According to officials, Adkins allegedly convinced the victim they were in a romantic relationship and subsequently coerced them into creating and sending hundreds of pornographic images and videos.

The Florida Attorney General’s Office stated that Adkins allegedly sent adult pornographic materials to the victim, instructing them to recreate the images. He is also accused of using gifts, including a new iPhone and in-game currency on Fortnite and Roblox, to manipulate the victim.

The arrest has prompted concern among Rhode Island residents. “It sounds like some Jeffrey Epstein, like Chris Hansen stuff,” said Andromeda of Warwick. “Really upsetting.” Tessa Potter, a West Warwick resident, described the allegations as “Disgusting.” Gabriel Martinez of Providence emphasized the need for parental vigilance, stating, “You gotta watch out.”

Andromeda also raised concerns about the responsibility of gaming platforms, specifically Roblox. “I know Roblox has a big pedophilia problem and, like, the people who work at Roblox aren’t doing anything about it,” she said. “It’s kind of pretty messed up.”

Authorities warn that online platforms enable predators to reach children across state lines. “It’s a place where a stranger, an adult in another state, can get access to your little girl,” Uthmeier said.

Former Secret Service agent Bobby McDonald highlighted the importance of parental awareness, noting that these cases often follow a familiar pattern. “We’ve really got to take this seriously,” McDonald said. He urged parents to be mindful of their children’s comfort with technology and online communication. “We’ve got to spend a little bit more time looking over the shoulder of our kids to see what they’re doing and who they’re doing it with and what platforms they’re spending a lot of time with,” McDonald added.

Adkins was arrested last Tuesday in West Warwick and is currently being extradited to Florida. He faces multiple charges, including using a child in a sexual performance and 13 counts of unlawful possession of materials depicting sexual performance by a child.