Theย 764 online network accused of sexually exploiting and coercing minors has reached the Los Angeles area, with multiple suspects arrested locally as federal authorities investigate more than 500 people nationwide linked to violent online networks.
Members of 764 are accused not only of demanding sexually explicit images and videos from minors but also of coercing victims into acts of self-harm, according to federal authorities.
The FBI is investigating more than 500 individuals across the country, including in Los Angeles, in connection with 764 and other violent online networks. Authorities say several offshoots operate under different names.
The 764 online network targets minors online and coerces them into producing sexually explicit material or recording acts of self-harm, which are then circulated among members.
Several people with alleged connections to the network have been arrested in Los Angeles County over the past 18 months.
Investigators said Kim operated an online server with other 764 members and demanded sexually explicit photos and videos from minors before distributing the material.
Two other suspects have also been arrested in the Los Angeles area. Jose Henry Ayala Casimiro, 28, was arrested in April 2025, while Bryant Najera Gonzalez, 24, was arrested in February.
According to the Los Angeles Times, Ayala was accused of coercing minors into harming themselves and marking their bodies. Gonzalez was accused of directing victims to record self-harm and sexual acts, then threatening to release the material if they refused further demands.
How the 764 Online Network Targets Minors
Authorities say girls between the ages of 10 and 17 are among the network’s primary targets, particularly minors experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts or other psychological vulnerabilities.
Members may initially pose as romantic interests or friends online, using compliments, gifts or emotional support to gain a victim’s trust.
Investigators say they then gradually expose victims to increasingly disturbing or sexual material before demanding explicit images or videos.
Once they obtain compromising material, members may threaten to send it to the victim’s family or friends unless the victim complies with additional demands involving sexual acts or self-harm.
Federal investigators are particularly concerned about a cycle in which victims can themselves be drawn into targeting other minors. The FBI says some young people are recruited into the network and encouraged to approach additional victims.
Prosecutors believe some participants commit such crimes in an effort to gain status and recognition within online communities.
โThey tend to commit horrific crimes in order to gain recognition in their online community,โ federal prosecutor Joseph Guzman said.
Network Traces Back to Texas
The 764 online network was created in 2021 by Bradley Cadenhead, who was 15 at the time and lived in Stephenville, Texas. The name โ764โ was derived from the first three digits of the area’s ZIP code.
The FBI has warned that violent online networks such as 764 extend beyond child sexual exploitation and can encourage self-harm and violence among minors.
Anyone with information about related crimes or potential victims can contact the FBI at 1-800-225-5324 or submit a tip through the FBI’s online tip portal.
