James Florence Jr., a 36-year-old man from Plymouth, has agreed to a plea deal for cyberstalking multiple victims across Massachusetts. He used artificial intelligence to create fake online interactions and pornographic images of people, which he posted on websites intended to shame and degrade women, as reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Florence is preparing to plead guilty to seven counts of cyberstalking and one count of possession of child pornography following his arrest in September 2024. His actions, which took place from January 2014 to September 2024, included distributing manipulated photos, doxing victims, impersonating them online, soliciting sexual acts, and stealing personal items like underwear. Victims reported receiving threatening messages from accounts linked to Florence or others incited by him. One incident involved creating and posting a photo collage to a website, featuring an edited nude image alongside the victim's personal details.
Florence faces charges of electronic stalking, which could result in up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. The charge of possession of child pornography could lead to up to 20 years in prison, five years to life of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. A federal judge will determine the sentences based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The case was announced by U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley and FBI Special Agent Jodi Cohen, with assistance from the Plymouth Police and Fire Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm is handling the prosecution, as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
