FBI Chicago is searching for a man wanted on federal charges for using social media apps to extort children for sexual images and, in one instance, allegedly threatening to livestream the murder of a child and their family.
A federal arrest warrant has been issued for David Patrick Sheffield on the charge of interstate communication of threats.
Sheffield is alleged to have used popular social media applications to approach minors.
The FBI Chicago Field Office said the man solicited sexually explicit photographs and videos in return for the promise of payment.
Sheffield is alleged on at least one occasion to have made explicit threats to direct and livestream the violent murder of a child and their family, the FBI said.
The FBI said Tuesday that they are seeking the public’s help in identifying juvenile victims who may have been asked by Sheffield to produce and send explicit videos and photos.
Sheffield has many different social media accounts, usernames and aliases.
His known Snapchat username is “davew5944.” His Instagram usernames are “venamis19955” or “venamis1995.”
Some of his other usernames are “dakota-white-74” and “dave-muenster-99.”
The FBI said Sheffield’s aliases are Dave or David White, Damien White, Damien Donahue and Craiger Strout.
The man has a nautical star tattoo on his chest. He also has a tattoo of cursive writing and a checkered emblem on his right forearm.
Sheffield has scars on his left arm and leg.
Anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Sheffield is encouraged to contact the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.
All responses are voluntary and all identities of victims are kept confidential, officials said.
Victims may be eligible for certain services, restitution and rights under federal and state law.
Information leading to Sheffield’s arrest may lead to a reward, the FBI said.