Richard Densmore, a 47-year-old Army veteran from Michigan, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for his involvement in the notorious online criminal network known as 764. This network has rapidly grown since its inception in 2020 by Texas teenager Bradley Cadenhead, who is currently serving time for related offenses.
Densmore was arrested in January and pleaded guilty in July to charges of sexually exploiting a child. The FBI has classified the 764 network as a “tier one” terrorism threat, linking it to dangerous extremist ideologies and identifying it as a significant threat to national security. Cases related to 764 have emerged across the U.S. and in several countries.
In a recent press conference, Assistant Attorney General Matt Olsen condemned the network for its atrocities, which include extreme exploitation and coercion of minors, often using terrifying tactics to maintain control over victims. Many members of 764 display a chilling level of depravity, with documented instances of encouraging victims to harm themselves and even suggesting suicide for entertainment purposes.
During the sentencing, federal prosecutors highlighted the severity of Densmore’s actions, detailing his leadership in online forums where children were not only victimized but also subjected to severe psychological manipulation and physical harm. Densmore operated a server that promoted child exploitation and engaged in extortion activities on platforms like Discord, using intimidation tactics against his underage victims.
Evidence presented in court revealed that Densmore was proud of his influence within the network and often bragged about the lengths to which he would drive his victims. His conversations displayed a complete disregard for the well-being of the children he exploited, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
The case highlights the urgent need for continued vigilance against online predators and the networks that facilitate such heinous crimes. As law enforcement agencies work to dismantle 764, the efforts to protect vulnerable children from exploitation remain critical.
