Detroit Man Faces Multiple Felony Charges After Roblox Messages Allegedly Lead to Images Involving 11-Year-Old Girl
DETROIT, MICHIGAN — A 25-year-old Detroit man is facing multiple felony charges after investigators say online messages exchanged on the gaming platform Roblox led to the discovery of explicit images involving an 11-year-old girl. Michigan State Police confirmed the arrest followed a multi-state investigation that began after school staff in South Dakota, where the child lives, reported disturbing material found on the girl’s phone.
The suspect, identified in court records as Abdulwahed Mamoon Dhalai, was charged after digital evidence allegedly traced the online communications back to Detroit.
Investigation Began After School Report in South Dakota
According to authorities, the investigation started when school staff discovered an explicit image on the child’s phone and notified her parents. After reviewing the device, the parents reportedly found additional images, messages, and explicit content involving an adult male and contacted local police.
Those officers then coordinated with Michigan State Police, who opened a broader investigation into the source of the communications.
Authorities Allege Online Contact Through Roblox
Investigators allege Dhalai contacted the child through Roblox, an online gaming platform popular with minors. Police say the suspect requested explicit photos from the child and sent explicit images of himself. Authorities further allege that explicit images of the child were saved on the suspect’s phone. Digital forensic analysis reportedly allowed investigators to trace the communications and identify Dhalai in Detroit.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Michigan court records show Dhalai is charged with:
- Child sexually abusive material, aggravated possession
- Using a computer to commit a crime
Authorities say the charges carry a potential prison sentence ranging from 10 to 20 years if convicted.
Dhalai was arraigned and granted a $25,000 bond, according to court documents.
Defense Denies Allegations
During the arraignment hearing, the defense denied the allegations and claimed the online activity was not committed by Dhalai, asserting that someone else was responsible for the communications.
Officials emphasized that the case remains active as it proceeds through the court system and that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Ongoing Investigation Highlights Online Safety Concerns
Law enforcement officials say the case underscores the risks children can face on online platforms and the importance of reporting suspicious activity. Authorities credited school staff and the child’s parents for acting quickly, which led to the investigation. Further court dates and proceedings have not yet been announced.
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