19-Year-Old Charged with Animal Crushing, Exploiting Minors

URGENT UPDATE: A federal grand jury has just indicted 19-year-old Tony Christopher Long from Porterville, California, on multiple serious charges, including animal crushing and sexual exploitation of a minor. The indictment was returned on October 26, 2023, in the Eastern District of California, and it reveals shocking details about Long’s alleged involvement with a violent extremist group known as “764.”

According to the indictment, Long faces two counts of animal crushing and several other charges, including possession of material involving the sexual exploitation of a minor and cyberstalking. The animal cruelty incidents reportedly occurred on or about November 4 and December 4 in Tulare County, located approximately 165 miles north of Los Angeles.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) describes animal crushing as the intentional infliction of severe harm on living animals. In a statement, Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned Long’s actions, stating, “This defendant allegedly engaged in acts of extreme cruelty by exploiting a child, abusing animals, and threatening violence—his conduct reflects the depravity of ‘764.’”

Authorities reveal that Long is affiliated with the criminal organization “764,” characterized by its nihilistic and violent extremist ideology aimed at societal collapse through chaos and destruction. This group is known for preying on vulnerable individuals, including minors, as part of their disturbing agenda.

In late 2023, Long allegedly exploited a juvenile victim living in Washington State and committed cyberstalking against another minor in Kern County, California. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of up to 30 years for the sexual exploitation of a minor, with potential total prison time reaching 76 years and fines of up to $250,000 per charge.

The FBI is taking a strong stance against such predatory behavior. FBI Director Kash Patel stated, “The FBI has no tolerance for anyone who preys on children or other vulnerable members of society.” He emphasized that the FBI will collaborate with local law enforcement to ensure accountability for those involved in these reprehensible acts.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the DOJ in May 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorney Eric Grant for the Eastern District of California noted, “My office will vigorously investigate and prosecute offenses committed by NVE groups, including those alleged to have been committed by Long against young and vulnerable victims.”

The indictment of Tony Christopher Long serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect our communities from extremist violence and child exploitation. Authorities are expected to continue their investigation into the activities of the “764” group and its associates.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.