A Tampa teenager has been taken into custody on charges of extortion, among other accusations, after demanding more nude photographs from a 16-year-old girl under duress. The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Christopher Patrinostro, was arrested after the victim reported that Patrinostro sent her nude photos of herself and threatened to release them online should she refuse to comply, as confirmed by Tampa police on Thursday.

The investigation, which swiftly led to Patrinostro's arrest at his Brandon home, was conducted with collaboration between Tampa Police and the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. According to WFLA, detectives obtained and executed a search warrant on Patrinostro’s residence, seizing several devices. The charges levelled against him include extortion, promotion of a sexual performance by a child, use of a computer to solicit certain illegal acts, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "This case highlights the courage it takes to come forward and report these types of crimes," as reported by FOX 13 News. Bercaw praised the detectives on the department's Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Squad for their dedication to pursuing offenders and holding them accountable. He also reminded the public of the importance of exercising caution online, particularly amongst younger demographics.