WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two men have been arrested and charged in connection with what officials describe as an international child exploitation ring tied to a violent extremist network known as “764,” the U.S. Department of Justice announced Tuesday.
Leonidas Varagiannis, 21, also known as “War,” a U.S. citizen residing in Thessaloniki, Greece, and Prasan Nepal, 20, also known as “Trippy,” of High Point, North Carolina, are accused of leading a core subgroup within the 764 network. Nepal was arrested in North Carolina on April 22. Varagiannis was taken into custody Monday by authorities in Greece.
Key Points
- U.S. and Greek authorities arrested two men linked to an extremist online network that exploited minors globally.
- The accused allegedly led a subgroup that produced, distributed, and traded graphic abuse content for status and recruitment.
- Victims were subjected to psychological torture, forced mutilation, and coerced violent acts.
According to an affidavit unsealed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, the defendants operated within “764 Inferno,” a subgroup that directed the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The group allegedly targeted minors through encrypted messaging platforms, manipulated them into creating explicit content, and compelled them to perform acts of self-harm.
The Department of Justice described the operation as one of the most severe child exploitation cases uncovered. “These defendants are accused of orchestrating one of the most heinous online child exploitation enterprises we have ever encountered — a network built on terror, abuse, and the deliberate targeting of children,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.
Digital ‘Lorebooks’ and global victimization
The affidavit states the defendants and their co-conspirators compiled the material into digital “Lorebooks” — archives of explicit and violent content that served as status symbols and digital currency within the 764 network. These files were used to recruit new members and maintain rank among network participants.
Victims, some as young as 13, were coerced into committing disturbing acts, including self-mutilation, sexual exploitation of others, and violence against animals. In several cases, the abuse was carried out both online and in person. The enterprise reportedly operated from late 2020 through early 2025, with both men allegedly serving as central figures throughout.
FBI Director Kash Patel underscored the agency’s commitment to dismantling such networks. “We will track down and hold accountable those who engage in these criminal activities,” Patel said.
U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. called the case “every parent’s nightmare,” citing the widespread harm and traumatic depth of the alleged crimes. Both defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison if convicted.
Extremist ring used abuse and violence to spread terror across borders and platforms.
