Devin Ravine, also known as Derek Johnson, a 20-year-old resident of Riverside, California, has been arrested and charged with the sexual exploitation of a minor. The announcement was made by United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The criminal complaint alleges that between March 30, 2025, and April 1, 2025, Ravine coerced a minor from Rensselaer County to create child sexual abuse content and send it to him over the Internet. It is important to note that the charges in the complaint are accusations, and Ravine is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
United States Attorney Sarcone commented, “This case is the result of what I like to call ‘Operation It’s Not Your Fault’ – FBI agents visit schools all over the Northern District of New York to educate students about internet safety and sextortion.” Sarcone emphasized the importance of students coming forward if they find themselves victims of such crimes.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli remarked on the investigation's significance, stating, “This case truly exemplifies the strength and reach of the FBI. It should also put predators on notice, as it doesn’t matter where you’re committing these heinous crimes, we will use every resource we have to find you and ensure you can never hurt another child again.”
Ravine appeared in court in the Central District of California, with a detention hearing scheduled. If convicted, he faces a sentence of 15 to 30 years in prison, potential fines up to $250,000, and a supervised release of 5 years to life. Additionally, he may be ordered to pay restitution to the victim and forfeit devices used in committing the crime. Upon release, he would be required to register as a sex offender.
The case is under investigation by the FBI Albany Field Office with support from the FBI Riverside Field Office, the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is led by Assistant United States Attorneys Rick Belliss and Mikayla Espinosa within the framework of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a national initiative aimed at addressing the increasing issue of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For further details about Project Safe Childhood, visit their website.