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Two young girls from Florida were found safe over the weekend after authorities said a Nebraska man traveled across state lines following months of online communication initiated through the gaming platform Roblox. Law enforcement officials say the case highlights growing concerns about how predators exploit online platforms to build trust with minors before escalating contact offline.
According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect, identified as a 19 year old man from Omaha, Nebraska, began communicating with the two sisters, ages 12 and 15, through Roblox in mid-2025. Investigators say the interactions later expanded to Snapchat and continued for several months, during which the suspect allegedly cultivated a relationship with the girls.
The girls, who live in Indiantown, roughly 50 miles north of Palm Beach, were reported missing Saturday evening. Family members immediately told detectives about the online communications, noting that they had raised concerns earlier in the year after unusual events began occurring at the home. According to the sheriff, the family noticed unexplained food deliveries and gifts during the summer of 2025, prompting fears that someone online was attempting to gain the girls’ trust.
Authorities said the suspect ultimately drove from Nebraska to Florida and allegedly abducted the girls with the intent of taking them back with him. Law enforcement located the girls and confirmed they were unharmed.
“This was a sobering case for us here at the county sheriff’s office, but we’re thankful with how it ended,” Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said during a news conference, emphasizing the speed with which investigators were able to act once the online connection was identified.
The case highlights ongoing safety concerns involving online gaming platforms and social media apps, where minors can be contacted by adults posing as friends or peers. Law enforcement officials continue to warn parents that grooming often occurs gradually, beginning with seemingly harmless conversations before escalating into real-world danger.
Learn More About Roblox Exploitation Lawsuits
Families impacted by online grooming or exploitation connected to Roblox may have legal options. You can learn more about Roblox exploitation lawsuits here . If you believe a child may have been harmed or targeted, you can also request a confidential and secure case review below.
