Predators in the Digital Playground: Unmasking the Dangers of Social Media and Online Gaming for Kids

LIVINGSTON PARISH, La. (WAFB) – The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office declared the apprehension of three individuals accused of exploiting social media channels to target minors.

Sheriff Jason Ard stated that deputies commenced proactive inquiries into three distinct individuals across various social media platforms in December 2024. Throughout these investigations, the sheriff’s office obtained arrest warrants for all three accused.

According to deputies, Norman “Buddy” Cutrer, Randy Gilleo, and Nathanial Walsh were placed under arrest.

The Louisiana Bureau of Investigations/ Attorney General’s Office/ Louisiana Homeland Security Investigations, along with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, assisted LPSO’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force in this probe.

“Detectives are working to identify those who are targeting unsuspecting and innocent children on social networks and online gaming platforms. The LPSO ICAC Task Force is devoted to recognizing these offenders,” remarked Sheriff Ard.

Charges

• Norman “Buddy” Cutrer, 35, from Ponchatoula, was detained on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, facing three counts of indecent behavior with minors, three counts of computer-aided solicitation of a minor, and possession of methamphetamine.

• Randy Gilleo, 28, hailing from Prairieville, was arrested on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, charged with two counts of indecent behavior with minors and two counts of computer-aided solicitation of a minor.

• Nathaniel Walsh, 34, residing in Sun Prairie, WI., was apprehended on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, facing two counts of indecent behavior with minors and one count of computer-aided solicitation of a minor.

As per the sheriff’s department, research indicates that only 7 percent of parents were aware their children have encountered inappropriate content from adults online.

Deputies have issued the following suggestions to aid parents in safeguarding their children:

• Understand your children
• Establish guidelines/rules for internet use
• Implement parental controls on applications
• Conduct integrity checks on child’s internet activity
• Foster open dialogue about internet behaviors
• Clarify to children the distinction between the online realm and reality
• Be involved in your child’s life

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