Louisiana Man Sentenced to Over 27 Years for Child Exploitation Crimes

ALEXANDRIA, La. (KPEL News) – An Alexandria man has been sentenced to more than 27 years in federal prison for his role in a widespread child exploitation scheme that targeted minors online. Daniel Perryman Collins, 34, of Pineville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 325 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for child pornography-related offenses. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell

Exploiting Children Through the Dark Web

Collins’ case was only a part of an extensive investigation into individuals using the dark web and social media platforms to exploit children online. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Collins and his co-defendant, Michael Bo Peacock, operated between January and November 2023, coercing minors into creating sexually explicit images and videos through threats and blackmail.

Collins crimes took place in Pineville, while Peacock was based in the Dallas, Texas area. The two targeted children using social media platforms, including Snapchat, where Peacock would groom and manipulate victims into engaging in sexually explicit activity. Once the victims complied, Collins and Peacock blackmailed them into producing even more material, using threats of exposure to maintain control.

Encrypted Accounts and International File Sharing

To hide their crimes, Collins used sophisticated security measures to prevent authorities from tracing their activities. Both men shared access to an encrypted overseas cloud storage account, where they uploaded and exchanged child pornography they had coerced victims into producing. The two worked hard to ensure only they could access the material by using encryption keys.

It is estimated that Collins and Peacock exploited more than 100 child victims, producing and distributing their images and videos across the dark web.

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FBI Investigation Uncovers Extensive Exploitation

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) launched a major investigation into Collins and Peacock’s activities. On November 16, 2023, authorities executed a search warrant at Collins’ Pineville residence, there they uncovered direct access to the encrypted storage account. FBI agents downloaded extensive amounts of child pornography from the files.

Collins pleaded guilty on November 21, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography and one count of enticing a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity. Peacock pleaded guilty to the same charges on December 23, 2024, and is awaiting sentencing.

Authorities Warn Parents About Online Predators

Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook condemned the crimes, emphasizing the growing dangers of child exploitation through online platforms.

“The sexual exploitation of minor children and the activities that these men participated in is horrendous and sickening. These types of cases are becoming more prevalent in the United States and internationally and can happen in your own neighborhood. We encourage parents to be vigilant in keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity that your children could potentially be exposed to.”

FBI Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough reiterated the agency’s commitment to tracking down and prosecuting online predators.

���Through relentless investigations and cutting-edge technology, the FBI works every day to uncover hidden networks, identify victims, and bring perpetrators to justice. Today’s sentencing sends the message that the FBI is committed to protecting vulnerable lives and ensuring no predator can thrive at the expense of our children.”

Protecting Children from Online Exploitation

The case was investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit, with assistance from the New Orleans and Dallas Field Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker led the prosecution.

Authorities urge parents and guardians to monitor children’s online activities and report any suspicious behavior. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) received 36 million reports related to the possession, distribution, and production of child sexual abuse materials.

To report suspected child exploitation, visit CyberTipline or call 1-800-843-5678.