Photo credit: CKPG

By David Branco

Sextortion

Grieving family urgently warns of sextortion threat after 12-year-old son’s tragic death

Nov 29, 2023 | 1:16 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Grieving parents Ryan Cleland and Nicola Smith are passionately urging fellow parents and caregivers to have sincere conversations with their youth about the dangers of sextortion. In the aftermath of their 12-year-old son Carson’s tragic passing, they share a heartfelt plea for open communication to prevent others from enduring a similar devastating loss.

“Talk to your kids about predators and all this stuff that’s happening and the safety online.” – Nicola Smith, Mother of Carson Cleland

According to Prince George RCMP, their investigation revealed that Carson took his own life in response to online sextortion.

And according to Carson’s family, he preferred to use the platform Snapchat to communicate with others.

“They’re not built for problems like this yet. They’re not built for adult problems in a kids’ world.” – Ryan Cleland, Father of Carson Cleland

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According to the police, it’s very complex to investigate allegations of sextortion. Therefore, education can be your best defence against predators.

In 2023, Prince George RCMP received 62 sextortion reports, exceeding the 2022 total of 56. If victimized, stop communication, deactivate accounts, and urgently seek help from local authorities, NeedHelpNow.ca, and Cybertip.ca.

Immediate action is crucial.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

TikTok: @DaveBrancoVJ