On February 28 in Eugene, Oregon, a grand jury indicted Devon J. Patel, 26, on multiple charges, including five counts of computer crimes and three counts of encouraging child sexual abuse in the first degree. The indictment followed an investigation into the unauthorized access and distribution of private images and videos from Snapchat accounts. The investigation began in November 2022 after a student reported a privacy violation and later identified more than three dozen victims, including minors, according to the Washington County.
The investigation into Devons Patel was a "complex investigation" that took place over several months. Detectives obtained nine search warrants to access digital platforms such as Snapchat and Cash App. In May 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Patel’s residence and seized electronic devices. These devices showed how Patel accessed victims’ Snapchat accounts and distributed their private content. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Eugene Police Department, Oregon State University, University of Oregon, and Washington County Sheriff's Office were involved in the investigation.
Patel was indicted on February 28, for alleged computer-related crimes after the Lane County District Attorney’s Office presented the case to a grand jury. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office stated there may be more unidentified victims and is asking anyone with information to call 503-846-2700 and reference case number 50-22-17704.
