Global Catfish Predator Jailed After Abusing Thousands

Alexander McCartney, a prolific online predator, used fake identities to blackmail over 3,500 children worldwide, leading to tragic consequences.

Alexander McCartney, from Northern Ireland, was sentenced to at least 20 years for child sex offenses and manslaughter.
He posed as a teenage girl online to lure young victims into sending explicit images, which he used for further blackmail.
Cimarron Thomas, a 12-year-old from West Virginia, took her own life after McCartney's coercion, highlighting the severe impact of his crimes.
Victims from the US, New Zealand, and other countries have spoken out about the lasting trauma caused by McCartney's manipulation.
The case underscores the importance of reporting online abuse, as highlighted by victims who eventually came forward to authorities.