U.S. federal agents have arrested individuals in Baltimore and Arizona as part of an ongoing effort to dismantle the ‘764’ network, a child exploitation group accused of targeting minors aged 11 to 15. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino highlighted the network’s dangerous activities, including coercion into violent acts, self-harm, and the distribution of child pornography. The FBI has intensified its operations, with over 300 investigations currently active across the country, as part of a federal priority to eliminate such networks. The ‘764’ group, named after the ZIP code of its founder, Bradley ‘Felix’ Cadenhead, is part of a broader ecosystem of violent online communities known as ‘The COM.’ Members allegedly use platforms like Discord, Telegram, and Roblox to recruit and manipulate minors, creating a dangerous online environment for young users.
Bongino emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the network’s operations are a major threat to children in America. The FBI has already seen the results of its efforts, with more than 30 children rescued during recent trafficking operations. Bongino urged parents to remain vigilant, monitor their children’s online activities, and take necessary precautions to protect them from such networks. The arrests in Baltimore and Arizona are part of a larger investigation that includes allegations of distributing child pornography, cyberstalking, and even conspiring to provide material support to terrorists. These actions are part of the FBI’s broader strategy to combat online exploitation of minors and to disrupt the operations of harmful groups like ‘764.’
Cadenhead, who founded the network in 2021, is a Texas teenager who previously operated a group called CVLT. The ‘764’ network has grown into a significant threat, with its members exploiting online platforms to groom and manipulate minors. Experts have warned that online ‘gore’ forums are a gateway to extremism, often normalizing violence and horror for young users. Bongino’s statements underscore the FBI’s commitment to addressing these threats. While the FBI continues its operations, it has also called for public awareness and parental involvement in safeguarding children from dangerous online communities. As more arrests and investigations unfold, the FBI remains dedicated to dismantling the ‘764’ network and protecting vulnerable youth from exploitation.