DOMINIC DAWSON SCAM IN SUNDERLAND: MAN DUPED WITH FAKE ONLINE PROFILE AND EXTORTED FOR MONEY

In a disturbing case heard at Newcastle Crown Court, it was revealed that Dominic Dawson from Sunderland engaged in a deceptive online scheme involving a fake profile of a young woman named Chloe. Dawson purchased this profile for just £40, which was already loaded with provocative images, and then used it to send friend requests to unsuspecting men across various platforms.

According to court proceedings, one victim accepted Dawson's friend request, only to be subsequently sent an explicit image purportedly of Chloe, exposing her breasts. The victim was then offered access to additional premium content for a fee of approximately £10 or £20. Prosecutor Emma Dowling explained that the victim decided to subscribe and made a single payment. However, shortly after, Dawson, through the fake profile, contacted the victim again, claiming that Chloe was in need of further funds. The victim was told that if he refused to pay, the content he had already received was of someone underage, and he would be reported to both the police and social services.

This threat caused significant distress, especially as the victim was concerned about his relationship and the well-being of his unborn child. Under pressure, he ended up paying more than £700, which led to financial difficulties, including falling behind on bills. The stress and guilt from the situation reportedly pushed the victim into suicidal thoughts, highlighting the severe psychological impact of Dawson's scam.

Miss Dowling further detailed that Dawson, through the fake profile, sent bank details and repeatedly demanded money from the victim, exploiting his fears and vulnerabilities for financial gain. This case underscores the dangers of online scams and the manipulative tactics used by offenders like Dominic Dawson, whose actions have caused significant emotional and financial harm to his victims.