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Green Cove Springs Today
By the People, for the People
Rhode Island Man Charged in Sextortion Case Involving Florida Child
Justin Adkins, 29, accused of using online gaming platforms to exploit a minor, faces multiple felony counts and extradition to Florida
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Authorities say a 29-year-old Rhode Island man, Justin Adkins, is accused of using online gaming platforms like Fortnite, Snapchat, and Roblox to carry out a sextortion case involving a child in Green Cove Springs, Florida. Adkins allegedly connected with the minor on Fortnite, then continued conversations on other apps, pressuring the child to send explicit photos and videos. He was arrested in Rhode Island and is being held without bond as he faces extradition to Florida to face multiple felony charges.
Why it matters
This case highlights the growing threat of online predators targeting children through popular gaming and social media platforms. It underscores the importance of parental monitoring and education around the risks of in-game interactions and the need for stronger safeguards to protect minors from exploitation.
The details
According to prosecutors, Adkins first contacted the victim through the video game Fortnite in 2024, exchanging phone numbers before continuing conversations on Snapchat and Roblox. He then allegedly pressured the child to send hundreds of explicit photos and videos, sending adult pornography as examples and purchasing virtual currency to manipulate the victim. Adkins was arrested in West Warwick, Rhode Island, on February 3 and is being held without bond as extradition arrangements are finalized.
- Adkins first contacted the victim through Fortnite in 2024.
- Adkins was arrested in West Warwick, Rhode Island, on February 3, 2026.
The players
Justin Adkins
A 29-year-old Rhode Island man accused of using online gaming platforms to exploit a child in Florida.
James Uthmeier
The Florida Attorney General who announced the case during a Monday news conference.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
The agency that led the multiagency investigation, along with the Green Cove Springs Police Department.
What they’re saying
“We must do everything in our power to protect our children from online predators and hold these criminals accountable.”
— James Uthmeier, Florida Attorney General (hoodline.com)
What’s next
Adkins is expected to be extradited to Florida to face multiple felony charges, including second-degree use of a child in a sexual performance and possession of child sexual abuse material. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 85 years in prison.
The takeaway
This case underscores the urgent need for parents to closely monitor their children's online activities and gaming interactions, as well as the importance of robust law enforcement efforts to identify and apprehend predators who exploit minors through digital platforms.
