Like most authors, I have ‘Google Alerts’ on my book titles
to see when something comes up about them on the internet. Many times we get
alerts on articles that use those words, but are unrelated to us. We expect it,
it’s no big deal. One of my titles is also the title of a new erotica book. I
just ignore those alerts. However, I had one this morning that really disturbed
me.
I had just woken up, put the dog out, and grabbed my first
cup of coffee. The first email in my inbox was a Google Alert. I’d rather not
say which title it was for and if anyone asks for the website it took me to, I’ll
never speak to you again.
The link took me to a site that advertises porn videos to
purchase and download. This isn’t surprising, it happens a lot. I usually hit
delete and move on. Today, some of the images on the advertisements caught my
eye. They pictured very young, naked girls, (between the ages of 10-13
years-old), physically engaging with naked grown men.
I called my local sheriff’s department to find out how to
report the site. They were concerned, but said the FBI handled these type
cases. My next call was to my local FBI branch.
The agent that took my call took my name, phone number, and address.
Next, he asked me to describe exactly what was pictured on the advertisements.
I told him, but added that I hadn’t and wouldn’t open any of the videos to see
what those showed. The pictures I’d seen were bad enough. Obviously, though, they
were not bad enough for the FBI. They didn’t even ask the name of the website.
It seems you can show pictures of children being sexually exploited,
as long as it doesn’t include actual sexual penetration. This is not an exaggeration.
This is what I was told. I even asked for clarification.
I don’t know what is making my head hurt worse, the images
of those children or my disappointment with the FBI.
So, to close I’d just like to say – Be vigilant parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and older siblings. We are all that stands between our children and some very sick
people.
Missing and Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678
Oh, goodness gracious. I've encountered some awful things in my life on the Internet, but not anything like this. There's not enough happy thoughts to cover up something like that. :( I'm glad you called someone, but now I'm more disappointed than ever in our "national law enforcement." They should have at least taken a look. :(
ReplyDeleteOh my God, that is so awful. I am so glad I've never witnessed any pictures like that - I can bet the disturbing images will never fade. But just because a person doesn't see them doesn't mean they are not out there. It's tragic. ((hugs)) I hope you feel better.
ReplyDeleteHow unspeakably terrible. I am also appalled by the lack of response by the FBI.
ReplyDeleteWhat a disgusting response, Sandra. When I opened your link...this was probably the last thing I expected to read. I'm sorry for those children, glad you posted this and the phone number.
ReplyDeleteI also didn't expect to read of your experience. My prayers for the children. I hope the web site customers find mental health treatment and that the site owners are permanently stopped from business.
ReplyDeleteFrightening...this world we live in. You at least tried to take some action, which is probably more than most. Thank you for that.
ReplyDeleteOMG - I can't believe the FBI weren't interested. This is just so sad.
ReplyDeleteOMG - I can't believe the FBI weren't interested. This is just so sad.
ReplyDelete