Macomb Woman Charged in Online Extortion Scheme Targeting Metro Detroit Men

26-year-old Marina Bazzi accused of luring men on adult websites and demanding cash payments

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 26-year-old Macomb Township woman named Marina Bazzi has been arrested and charged with extortion, stalking, harassment, and computer-related crimes after a months-long investigation into an alleged online extortion scheme targeting men across Metro Detroit. Authorities say Bazzi used adult websites to lure men, then pressured or threatened them into sending her money.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of sextortion and financially-motivated sexual blackmail, which have surged in recent years often starting on dating apps and adult websites. It also underscores the need for greater awareness and education around these predatory tactics to protect potential victims.

The details

According to police, Bazzi set up profiles on adult services websites to arrange encounters with men, then pressured or threatened them into sending her money, sometimes after initial payments or exchanges had already taken place. Investigators executed a search warrant at her Macomb Township home, with assistance from several law enforcement agencies. Prosecutors have filed a felony extortion charge against Bazzi, along with counts of stalking, harassment and computer crimes. Authorities believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.

  • The investigation into Bazzi's alleged scheme stretched from April through October 2025.
  • Bazzi was arrested on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Marina Bazzi

A 26-year-old woman from Macomb Township, Michigan who has been charged with extortion, stalking, harassment, and computer-related crimes for allegedly luring men on adult websites and demanding cash payments from them.

Berkley Police Department

The police department in Berkley, Michigan that assisted in the investigation into Bazzi's alleged extortion scheme.

Macomb County Sheriff's Office

The sheriff's office in Macomb County, Michigan that also assisted in the investigation into Bazzi's alleged extortion scheme.

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What’s next

Prosecutors expect additional charges to be filed against Bazzi in other jurisdictions as more complaints are reviewed. Authorities are urging potential victims to come forward and provide any relevant evidence such as payment records, messages, and screenshots.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threat of online sextortion and the need for greater awareness and education around these predatory tactics. It underscores the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to local law enforcement in order to protect potential victims and bring perpetrators to justice.