FBI investigates Moneta man accused of child abuse and stalking

FILE – An FBI seal is seen on a wall in Omaha, Nebraska, on Aug. 10, 2022. A senior FBI official says the agency is concerned about the possibility that foreign adversaries could use artificial intelligence to interfere in American elections and spread disinformation. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — A Moneta man faces multiple charges after allegedly stalking and serving as a leadership role in a group of individuals who engage in cyber-extortion and “SWAT operations.”

On June 13, a grand jury in federal court in Roanoke indicted 26-year-old Evan Strauss, also known as “Reaper” and “Kobe Deonsons,” on charges of stalking, coercion and enticement, possession of child pornography and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

According to court documents, on November 1, 2023, Strauss met a Wyoming teenager online and began communicating with her regularly. Over the course of several months, he allegedly used several interactive computer services and other systems to harass, intimidate, and monitor her.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office says in one case the teenager refused to provide nude photos and videos of herself, after which Strauss allegedly became controlling. He later found out her address and allegedly threatened to kill her, her family and her cat. In response, prosecutors say, the girl complied with his requests, among other things.

In January 2024, FBI agents interviewed Strauss and searched his home. During the search, investigators allegedly found evidence and seized an iPhone containing several videos and images of young girls.

According to the law firm, Strauss admitted to one of his online usernames, “Reaper,” and claimed to be an active member of a group of about 200 people known as the “Community.” He also allegedly operated a subgroup within the group called “Purgatory.”

According to Strauss, the “community” allegedly engages in a range of criminal activities online, including swatting calls, hacking and blackmailing individuals. He said the group also allegedly blackmails women and girls to obtain explicit photos or videos of themselves and to harm themselves.

This case remains under investigation by the FBI.