In this powerful and deeply unsettling episode, Jim Rathmann exposes the dark reality of the 764 network, a nihilistic violent extremist movement targeting children through online gaming platforms like Roblox, Discord, and other digital spaces.
Jim breaks down a real case out of Vernon, Connecticut, involving a 17-year-old honor roll student who was groomed, exploited, and ultimately manipulated into becoming an active participant in online bomb threats, swatting incidents, and digital extortion. What began as victimization escalated into coordinated threats against schools, religious institutions, public libraries, and government buildings, triggering a massive law enforcement response across state and federal agencies.
Joining Jim is Detective Thomas Van Tassel of the Vernon Police Department, a nationally recognized investigator with deep expertise in digital forensics and online extremism. Together, they unpack how the case unfolded, how investigators identified digital patterns across international borders, and why the FBI has labeled networks like 764 a modern-day terrorist threat.
Most importantly, this episode equips parents, educators, and guardians with critical insight into:
How children are groomed online through gaming and chat platforms
Warning signs of online exploitation and self-harm
How extremist groups manipulate vulnerable youth
Practical steps parents can take to protect their children’s devices and digital lives
This is not fear-mongering. This is awareness. And it may save a life.