Prasan Nepal, a 21-year-old who led the online extremist group known as “764,” pleaded guilty on Thursday to conspiracy to sexually exploit minors. The Department of Justice stated that Nepal, also known by the online handle “Trippy,” operated the network for nearly four years.
Nepal exploited at least eight children, some as young as 13, according to U.S. Attorney Jeannie Pirro. The group utilized encrypted applications to enforce participation through a set of rules required for entry. These directives compelled minors to engage in self-mutilation, sexual acts online and in person, harm to animals, violence, threats, suicide, and murder, as well as the sexual exploitation of siblings and others.
In a press release, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia described the 764 network as a “nihilistic violent extremist network” involved in coordinated criminal activities across the United States and internationally. The organization promoted an ideology centered on chaos and societal destabilization, while also engaging in extortion and psychological harm.
Pirro emphasized the severity of the crimes, stating, “This case exposes a world where cruelty is currency, violence is entertainment, and children are treated as targets in a game of domination and control.” She added that the plea deal serves as a warning that law enforcement will locate and stop those who hide behind encrypted screens.
The legal proceedings come amid an expanding federal investigation into the group. ABC News first reported in May that the FBI had launched 250 investigations tied to 764 and similar networks. Since then, the bureau has opened at least 100 additional investigations.
Nepal is scheduled to be sentenced in May 2027 and faces a prison term between 15 and 30 years.
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