​South El Monte Man Accused of Threatening Teens to Extort Nude Photos

Written by AARON CASTREJON 
CityWatch Editor 

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COVINA - Investigators are seeking additional victims of a man who they allege extorted illicit images and video from teen victims and threatened violence if they didn’t comply.

Joel Villegas, 34, allegedly posed as a 17-year-old on Instagram under the name Jay Gomez and username “jay_the_big_beast.” Villegas allegedly asked to exchange phone numbers and GPS locations with the teens and threatened them afterwards, according to the Covina Police Department.

“Once Villegas obtains the minor’s home GPS location, he will demand explicit images and videos from the minor. If the minor refuses, Villegas sends the victim images of firearms, and threatens violence up to murder against his victims and their families,” according to the Covina Police Department in a written statement.

A search warrant was served at Villegas’ home where he was arrested February 9. 

Villegas was booked on suspicion of possessing child porn, criminal threats and extortion, according to the Covina Police Department.

Villegas posted $50,000 bond.

If you or your child have been contacted by this Instagram account or have additional information, you are urged to call Covina Police Detective Seok Lee 626-384-5615. Reference incident #21-25484.