FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino reveals shocking details about the “764” network, a vicious online predator ring targeting children as young as 11 and coercing them into violence, self-harm, and sexual abuse across popular gaming platforms.
Story Highlights
- FBI operates over 300 active investigations into the “764” network nationwide.
- Recent arrests include suspects targeting children between 11 and 15 years old.
- Predators infiltrate Discord, Telegram, and Roblox to recruit victims.
- The network was founded in 2021 and is named after the Texas ZIP code of the teenage creator.
FBI Launches Massive Crackdown on Child Predator Network
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced Wednesday that federal authorities have launched an intensive nationwide operation targeting the “764” network, a sophisticated online child exploitation ring.
The FBI currently maintains over 300 active investigations connected to this network, and that number continues to grow. Bongino emphasized this represents a top priority for the bureau, with teams working around the clock to dismantle these criminal operations and protect American children from predators.
The Director and I, in conjunction with our employees in the field, have emphasized taking down the “764 network” – and I want to update you on a couple of the latest cases.
For those who may not know, the 764 Network is a heinous child exploitation ring that often targets…
— Dan Bongino (@FBIDDBongino) November 19, 2025
Recent Arrests Expose Horrific Crimes Against Minors
FBI Baltimore agents recently arrested an individual charged with targeting five minors, including a 13-year-old victim. The suspect remains in federal custody while investigators develop additional details about the case.
In Arizona, federal authorities secured an indictment against another “764” affiliate who allegedly targeted nine victims between ages 11 and 15. The charges include distributing child pornography, cyberstalking, animal crushing, and conspiring to provide material support to terrorists.
NATIONWIDE CRACKDOWN: FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino says the bureau is ramping up efforts to dismantle the “764” network—an online child-exploitation ring tied to more than 300 ongoing investigations across the U.S.
“The 764 Network is a heinous child-exploitation ring that… pic.twitter.com/ytnneDFSoQ
— Fox News (@FoxNews) November 20, 2025
Predators Exploit Popular Gaming and Social Platforms
The “764” network operates within a broader ecosystem of violent online communities called “The COM,” systematically infiltrating platforms popular with preteens and teenagers. Members actively use Discord, Telegram, and Roblox to identify, recruit, and manipulate young victims.
These predators coerce children into acts of violence, self-harm, animal abuse, suicide, and sexual abuse. The network’s sophisticated approach allows criminals to hide behind seemingly innocent gaming and social platforms while targeting America’s most vulnerable population.
Network Origins Traced to Texas Teenager’s Criminal Enterprise
The “764” network originated in 2021 when Bradley “Felix” Cadenhead, a Texas teenager, founded the group as an evolution of his previous operation called CVLT. The network takes its name from Cadenhead’s hometown ZIP code, demonstrating how easily young criminals can establish far-reaching predatory organizations.
This case highlights the urgent need for parents to monitor their children’s online activities and implement protective safeguards limiting predator access to family networks.
Parents Urged to Strengthen Digital Protection Measures
Bongino issued stern warnings to American families about this largely unknown threat infiltrating children’s digital spaces. He urged parents to actively monitor internet usage, check in regularly with their children, and consider implementing technological safeguards that restrict network access.
The FBI director stressed this represents a major national issue requiring immediate parental attention and vigilance. While federal authorities continue aggressive enforcement efforts, protecting children ultimately requires coordinated action between law enforcement and informed, proactive families committed to digital safety.
