A Macomb County teenager is currently facing federal charges after an FBI investigation uncovered a trove of child pornography and animal torture videos that were being distributed online. The individual, 18-year-old Jolyan Raeed Zahrah, was arrested following a tip to the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children about illegal content being uploaded to Discord, a popular communication platform. According to a report by WWJ Newsradio, the investigation that began in January led to the execution of a search warrant at Zahrah's home, where his phone was seized. The phone reportedly contained numerous media files depicting sexual abuse of minors and the gruesome torture of animals.
Details provided by CBS Detroit highlight that Zahrah is facing one charge each of distribution of animal crush videos, distribution and possession of child pornography. The complaint, filed by an FBI Task Force Officer, states that the seized iPhone and associated email addresses contained photos and videos that are now part of federal evidence. This evidence was sufficient to prompt a detention hearing and Zahrah remains held without bond, pending a preliminary exam slated for June 30.
FBI agents have begun to unravel the web of Zahrah’s online activity, which includes links to "764," a group characterized by federal authorities as Nihilistic Violent Extremists (NVEs). The group's alleged objective is to cause social unrest and the overthrow of the established order, including the United States government. In an interview detailed by ClickOnDetroit, Zahrah reportedly described acts encouraged by 764, such as self-harm among young girls and other forms of exploitation to exert control over individuals.
The allegations have left the Macomb community reeling, with residents voicing their shock and concerns. One neighbor was quoted saying, "It’s scary. It’s very scary," a sentiment likely shared by many, especially parents. Further insights from ClickOnDetroit revealed Zahrah’s Google search history, which included alarming queries about mass shootings and "how to buy a gun in Michigan." With ongoing investigations, authorities are sifting through additional Discord accounts tied to Zahrah.
