Grand Rapids Reporter

Richard Anthony Reyna Densmore, also known by his online alias "Rabid," has pleaded guilty to sexually exploiting a child. Densmore, 47, from Kaleva, Michigan, is a member of 764, a decentralized network of online groups that target children for violent self-harm and pornographic activities.

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten announced the plea. "The guilty plea of Richard Densmore is an important step forward in our efforts to protect kids from the rising threat of sadistic online predators," said Totten. He emphasized the importance of awareness and action among parents and guardians to protect children from such dangers.

Densmore admitted that in September 2022, under the username “Rabid#7997” on Discord, he sent another user, a minor, Discord currency (Nitro) to persuade her to send a picture with "Rabid" written on her chest. When the minor hesitated, Densmore contacted another user who had an online relationship with the minor and persuaded him to obtain a nude photo of her with "Rabid" written on her chest. The minor eventually sent a nude video complying with this request.

Evidence presented at a February 2024 detention hearing showed that Densmore operated online servers as part of 764. This network targets children for violent acts and sexually explicit activities. The evidence also revealed that Densmore collected prepubescent child pornography and kept violent images and videos on his phones. Even after his phones were seized during an initial search warrant, he continued collecting such material on new devices.

In September 2023, the FBI issued a public service announcement regarding these groups. Articles published by The Washington Post and Wired.com in March 2024 described coordinated journalistic investigations into their activities. According to the FBI announcement, groups like 764 target marginalized minors and those experiencing mental health challenges. Members gain access by uploading videos of minors engaging in self-harm or sexually explicit conduct.

Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, commented on the case: "It’s frightening that individuals like Mr. Densmore seek access to our children through online platforms to exploit them sexually." Gibson stressed the importance of educating children and parents about internet safety to prevent exploitation.

U.S. Attorney Mark Totten advised parents to be vigilant for unexpected packages containing harmful materials sent by abuse networks for creating online content. The FBI recommended several precautionary steps:

- Look for fresh cuts or wounds in unusual patterns.

- Notice sudden behavior or appearance changes.

- Be attentive if children wear long sleeves or pants unusually.

- Monitor children's online activity and discuss risks.

- Conduct frequent searches of family information online.

For concerns about self-harm or suicide risk, consult a healthcare professional or call emergency services immediately.

The FBI is investigating this case with Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Townshend prosecuting it.

###