RI man charged in Florida online child exploitation case

FLORIDA — A 29-year-old West Warwick man has been arrested and charged in connection with an online child exploitation investigation announced by Florida authorities.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said Justin Adkins was taken into custody on February 3 in West Warwick after a minor reported the alleged abuse to police in January 2025.

According to investigators, Adkins first contacted the minor in 2024 through the video game Fortnite. Authorities say the conversations later moved to phone messaging and Snapchat, where Adkins allegedly convinced the minor they were in a romantic relationship.

Prosecutors allege Adkins coerced the minor into creating and sending hundreds of sexually explicit images and videos. Investigators say he also sent explicit material with instructions to recreate it and provided gifts, including a smartphone and in-game currency.

Uthmeier said the case highlights the growing dangers children face online and urged parents to remain vigilant.

Adkins is charged with sexual exploitation of a minor and coercing the production of child sexual abuse material. He is being held without bond and is expected to be extradited to Florida. If convicted, he could face up to 85 years in prison.