Florida Senator Targets Sextortion of Minors with New Federal Legislation

By Nicole Weatherholtz | Tuesday, 03 February 2026 12:15 PM EST

Florida Republican Senator Ashley Moody said on Tuesday that she is advancing a new federal bill to criminalize sextortion, filing a companion measure to House legislation targeting threats involving the distribution of child sexual abuse material.

During the interview, Moody detailed how her proposed law would establish sextortion as a distinct federal offense and enhance penalties for individuals who blackmail children through technological means. She warned that many parents remain unaware their children are being targeted by predators via digital platforms, noting this exploitation “happens under their noses.”

Moody explained that sextortion typically begins when offenders trick minors into sharing intimate images, then use those materials to extort money or more explicit content. “Strangers, predators,” she stated, “are getting to their children in their homes.” She emphasized that the traditional concept of “stranger danger” no longer applies, as perpetrators often operate within families’ private spaces.

The senator identified boys aged 14 to 17 as the primary targets, noting predators frequently pose as individuals the teen knows to obtain sensitive materials. Once obtained, Moody said offenders “have them under their control,” escalating demands through relentless messaging that threatens to destroy victims’ lives by sharing images with family, friends, or schools—often solely for torment.

Moody highlighted alarming consequences, citing reports of minors taking their own lives and warning the crisis is rapidly expanding nationwide. She described a case where children’s parents only discovered abuse after observing sudden behavioral changes, including instances where teens were stealing credit cards to fund blackmail operations.

The senator stressed that her legislation would “define sextortion,” treat it as an individual crime, and close legal loopholes that allow predators to evade charges when using threats rather than immediate distribution. With clearer statutes, Moody argued law enforcement could more effectively pursue offenders operating internationally.

As the mother of a school-aged child, Moody reiterated the personal stakes of the issue, pledging to “work tirelessly” to secure passage of the measure and achieve its goals.