KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – The Tennessee Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has approximately 3,600 ongoing investigations across the state.

This task force consists of a sergeant, three investigators, two computer forensics examiners and its commander, Lt. Andrew Boatman.

“Our unit will triage tips for the seriousness of the crime, the potential to find a living victim and the potential for ongoing abuse,” Boatman said.

ICAC’s caseflow originates from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The Tennessee facility received just over 17,000 tips this year.

“One of the biggest challenges we’re facing right now is the emergence of financial sextortion cases,” Boatman told WVLT News.

Financial sextortion is when overseas actors connect with teenagers online, posing as one of their peers. The predator forms a relationship with them, eventually getting them to send explicit photos or videos. The predator then threatens to publish that material unless the victim pays them with money or gift cards.

“The effect it can have on children at such a vulnerable age can lead to suicide,” Boatman said. Investigators have been able to identify at least 38 cases across the country this year of suicide directly related to financial sextortion.

Investigators must keep up with the evolution of technology to stay one step ahead of online criminals.

There are 61 ICAC task forces across the country. By using that network, agencies can have jurisdiction over most of the Internet.

In the state of Tennessee last year, 60 children were saved from ongoing abuse through ICAC’s work.

If you would like to submit a cyber tip to ICAC, click here Here.

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