FBI arrests man accused of orchestrating 14-year-old girl’s suicide over Discord

INDIANAPOLIS (WPTA/Gray News) - The FBI says a German man has been arrested on a count of murder in relation to an Indiana teenager’s suicide.

Warning: This article contains disturbing details that may be upsetting to readers.

The Fort Wayne Police Department says officers responded to a death investigation involving a 14-year-old girl earlier in October. The department’s Homicide Unit identified a suspect who allegedly contributed to her death, working with the FBI and authorities in Germany.

The FBI Indianapolis Field Office says German authorities recently arrested an 18-year-old man on suspicion of murder in the teen’s death. The Hamburg Public Prosecutor’s Office said he was 17 at the time of the alleged crime, according to a translated article by NDR, a German television broadcaster.

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This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org

Suspect allegedly manipulated teen into taking her own life

German prosecutors say the suspect communicated with the 14-year-old victim over Discord, manipulating her into hurting herself and ultimately taking her own life, according to NDR.

NDR reports that the suspect allegedly demanded that the victim record her self-harm. After the 14-year-old died, prosecutors allege he tried to obtain recordings of her suicide.

Investigators say the suspect is believed to have orchestrated her suicide, threatening that he would release compromising video of her, according to NDR. The article says police also found that the girl made references to the group “NMK,” which stands for ”Nefarious Maniac Cult,” in her recordings.

The Fort Wayne Police Department recently warned the community about similar dark web groups.

Police warn parents about dangerous dark web groups

Fort Wayne Police held a press conference Oct. 14 to warn parents, guardians, educators and young people about such online networks that they say are leading to deaths across the United States.

They say the perpetrators reportedly use Discord, Roblox, Telegram and other online platforms to build relationships with children and other vulnerable individuals.

They say messages and friend requests from such predators can escalate to grooming, sextortion, threats and psychological manipulation. Information and photos victims send can then be used by the groups to manipulate, threaten, blackmail or extort children.

“Anyone who targets or exploits a child should understand this: There is no safe haven from justice. It doesn’t matter where you live or where you try to hide. The FBI will work with our partners around the world to find you and hold you accountable,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “When children are victimized, we will pursue every lead and use every available resource. Wherever you go, justice will find you.”

The FBI says information about potential federal crimes can be reported here.