In a significant crackdown on cybercrime and child exploitation, the Department of Justice, under the administration of former President Donald Trump, has arrested two individuals for their alleged involvement in a violent online child abuse ring. The suspects, Leonidas Varagiannis, 21, and Prasan Nepal, 20, are accused of operating a subgroup known as "764 Inferno," within a broader transnational extremist network called 764. Varagiannis was arrested in Greece on April 29, while Nepal was apprehended a week prior in North Carolina.
The DOJ's investigation revealed that "764 Inferno" specialized in producing and disseminating disturbing child sexual abuse material. Using encrypted platforms, Varagiannis and Nepal allegedly targeted emotionally susceptible children, manipulating them into creating explicit content under duress. Reports from The Blaze indicate that threats, blackmail, and psychological pressure were tactics used to coerce the victims—many of whom were minors—into self-harm and the production of degrading imagery.
The FBI uncovered that the abuse was recorded and compiled into digital "Lorebooks," which members of the group treated as status symbols and a form of digital currency. These materials allowed members to rise through the ranks and gain influence within the extremist network. Encrypted "vaults" were used to trade and store this content securely.
At least eight minors have fallen victim to this heinous enterprise, with the youngest being only 13 years old. The DOJ's affidavit alleges that the group's criminal activities extended beyond online exploitation, compelling victims to engage in virtual and in-person sexual abuse, violent acts against others—including siblings and animals—and even suicidal behaviors or murder attempts.
Attorney General Pam Bondi described the case as "one of the most disturbing ever prosecuted by the department," emphasizing the commitment to finding, prosecuting, and dismantling operations that exploit and abuse children. FBI Director Kash Patel echoed this sentiment, stressing the agency's determination to protect juveniles and hold predators accountable.
Despite the allegations, Varagiannis has denied wrongdoing and is contesting extradition to the United States. His attorney, Xanthippi Moysidou, argues that Greek law should apply as Varagiannis was in Greece during the alleged offenses, making his extradition "explicitly prohibited." The ongoing investigation into the broader 764 network signals the DOJ's vigilance in combating extremism and exploitation on a global scale.
