06/04/2026
Could your kid be blackmailed? Yes.
Predators who use s*xtortion against kids are counting on your child being too afraid to tell their parents that someone has n**e photos of them. Many kids continue to meet the demands of predators because they are scared to talk to their parents. These kids are essentially held hostage to ongoing demands for money, s*x, more pictures, more videos, and other things.
This is a serious conversation parents should have with their kids before it ever happens.
I know many parents want to believe they have instilled enough values and caution that their child would never send inappropriate or illegal photos. The reality is that even great kids from great families make mistakes sometimes. With how desensitized many kids have become through social media, there is a high likelihood your child may someday send some type of photo that could later be used against them.
Let your kids know ahead of time that there may be consequences, but there will also be understanding, support, and learning opportunities.
What should your kids do if they know one of their friends has sent out a photo or is being extorted?
In our house, we regularly do tabletop scenarios and walk through possible actions, reactions, and short-term and long-term consequences. Talking about these situations as a family helps kids understand that you, as a parent, are on their team, especially when they make mistakes.
As a School Resource Officer, I try to help kids understand that the bigger the mistake, the more they need trusted adults like parents, teachers, counselors, or law enforcement to help them. I make sure they know I am on their team no matter what may have happened. The legal consequences of some online mistakes are minor compared to the real-world consequences of letting bad people control your life.
I would also like parents to understand that police officers, especially SROs, are here to help kids. Most of us would much rather see a parent handle a problem than see a judge involved. Sometimes families need extra support, and that’s when the court system may become part of the solution.
Happy Parenting!
Officer Gomez
