Florida AG Announces Arrest in Online Child Exploitation Case

29-year-old Rhode Island man charged with coercing minor to produce child sexual abuse material

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the arrest of Justin Adkins, a 29-year-old Rhode Island man, on charges related to the sexual exploitation of a minor and coercing the production of child sexual abuse material. The investigation began in January 2025 after a minor reported the alleged crimes to police.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of online predators targeting children through popular video games and messaging apps, underscoring the need for increased awareness and vigilance among parents to protect their children from such exploitation.

The details

Authorities said Adkins first made contact with the victim in 2024 on the video game Fortnite, and the two later exchanged phone numbers and continued communicating on Snapchat. Adkins allegedly convinced the victim they were in a romantic relationship and coerced the victim to create and send hundreds of pornographic images and videos. He also sent the victim pornographic material with instructions to recreate it, and provided gifts including a smartphone and in-game currency for Fortnite and Roblox.

  • The investigation began in January 2025 after a minor reported the alleged crimes to police.
  • Adkins was arrested on February 3, 2026 in West Warwick, Rhode Island.

The players

Justin Adkins

A 29-year-old Rhode Island man charged with sexual exploitation of a minor and coercing the production of child sexual abuse material.

James Uthmeier

The Florida Attorney General who announced Adkins' arrest.

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What they’re saying

“Parents need to wake up to the disturbing reality that we are seeing online.”

— James Uthmeier, Florida Attorney General (FOX 35 Digital Staff)

What’s next

Adkins is being held without bond and will be extradited to Florida. If convicted on all counts, he faces up to 85 years in the Florida Department of Corrections.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for parents to be vigilant about their children's online activities and the potential dangers of predators exploiting popular gaming and messaging platforms to target and harm minors. It underscores the importance of increased education and proactive measures to protect vulnerable youth from such exploitation.