A 13-year-old boy from Florida was taken into custody last Friday on multiple serious charges, including possession of child pornography and sexual content involving animals.
Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco revealed the arrest Monday, explaining that the boy had been involved in an online group on Discord—a platform popular among gamers and younger audiences—that allegedly promoted harmful behavior among minors.
The probe started after law enforcement received a tip about the group encouraging a young girl to engage in self-harm during a so-called “live cut show,” where such acts are broadcast in real time.
Sheriff Nocco described the group as one rooted in Satanic and neo-Nazi beliefs, ideologies that have been tied to similar cases across various states.
Investigators discovered that the suspect also possessed materials related to mass violence, bomb-making techniques and ways to hide evidence.
“This is a warning to parents and children to be aware of dangers online,” Nocco said, labeling the group “an online cult” that shows a blatant disregard for human life.
Authorities noted that the boy was just 12 years old when his suspicious activity first came to light.
During questioning, he reportedly admitted to urging two other minors to harm themselves.
The investigation
