A Plymouth, Massachusetts, resident, James Florence Jr., 37, has admitted guilt in a federal court in Boston for cyberstalking more than six women over 16 years, including minors. Florence pleaded to seven counts of cyberstalking and one count of possessing child pornography. Sentencing is scheduled for July 23, 2025, with U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns presiding.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley, along with James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division, announced the plea. They highlighted the contributions of local law enforcement agencies in the investigation, noting the involvement of the Plymouth Police and Fire Departments.
Florence was apprehended in September 2024, and his admission follows extensive cyber activities dating back to 2008. The defendant committed acts including hacking personal accounts and creating numerous fake profiles on multiple platforms. He distributed doctored sexually explicit images, capturing personal details and associations of the victims.
Court documents revealed that Florence altered stolen photos to depict victims in sexually explicit scenarios, posting these with their identities and personal data. The cyberstalking tactics also involved creating fake social media profiles, publishing explicit content under victims' names, and sharing their private information, urging public humiliation.
Evidence from Florence's residence uncovered an array of stolen personal items from victims, such as clothing, photos including those of minors, and child sexual abuse content. Authorities also noted his professional background in technology, which he leveraged for illicit activities, evading detection through VPNs and anonymous platforms.
Charges for electronic stalking can lead to a maximum of five years imprisonment, accompanied by fines and supervised release. In contrast, child pornography possession may result in up to 20 years of imprisonment and extended supervised release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm from the Major Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution. Victims or those affected by cyberstalking are encouraged to seek support through resources like the Office for Victims of Crime.