Full Breakdown
South Carolina Couple Sentenced for Cyberstalking Scheme Leading to Victim's Suicide
3/16/2026, 6:52:37 PM
Overview of the Cyberstalking Case
Trysten Anthony Cullon and Jade Ashlynn Stone, a South Carolina couple, have been sentenced for their roles in a cyberstalking and extortion scheme that targeted Christopher Tsoulos, a 27-year-old man with intellectual disabilities. The harassment, which took place over several days in September 2024, ultimately led to Tsoulos' suicide. Cullon received a 41-month prison sentence, while Stone was sentenced to 27 months. Both were ordered to pay $26,699.65 in restitution and will serve three years of supervised release following their prison terms.
How the Scheme Unfolded
The cyberstalking campaign began on September 5, 2024, when Cullon, after meeting Tsoulos at a Chick-fil-A where he worked, gained access to Tsoulos' unlocked phone. Over the next few days, Cullon and Stone attempted to transfer money from Tsoulos' financial accounts but were largely unsuccessful. They then resorted to sending threatening messages to Tsoulos' family, falsely accusing him of sexual misconduct and demanding money to prevent further damage to his reputation. The couple's threats included claims that Tsoulos was a "pervert" and that they would inform his employer unless they received payment.
Emotional Impact and Consequences
The emotional distress caused by the couple's threats was profound. Tsoulos, who relied heavily on family support and had a developmental disability that limited his understanding of the situation, became overwhelmed with fear of losing his job and facing legal repercussions. On September 8, 2024, he died by suicide, a tragic outcome that U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn Jr. described as a "particularly egregious version" of cyberstalking.
Official Statements and Reactions
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson characterized the case as "heartbreaking," emphasizing the vulnerability of Tsoulos and the calculated cruelty of Cullon and Stone's actions. FBI Special Agent in Charge Reid Davis noted that the couple "intentionally tormented" a man who depended on his family for support. During the sentencing, both defendants expressed remorse, reading handwritten apologies in front of Tsoulos' family and friends, who filled the courtroom.
Criticism and Broader Implications
The case has drawn attention to the growing issue of online schemes targeting vulnerable individuals, particularly those with disabilities. Authorities have highlighted the need for increased federal scrutiny of such crimes, which exploit the most defenseless members of society. The investigation was conducted by the FBI's Charlotte Division in collaboration with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While both defendants pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit cyberstalking, they initially faced a maximum of 45 years in prison for various charges, including wire fraud conspiracy and extortion. The sentences they received have sparked discussions about the adequacy of the penalties for such severe crimes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This case is heartbreaking,” — U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson
- “a particularly egregious version of this crime, resulting in a victim killing themselves,” — U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn Jr.
- “'Cullon and Stone turned to preying on the most vulnerable among us,' Ferguson said.” — U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson
- “'This couple intentionally tormented a young man with intellectual disabilities for personal enrichment,' Davis said.” — FBI Special Agent in Charge Reid Davis
The tragic outcome of this case underscores the urgent need for protective measures for individuals with disabilities against cyber exploitation and harassment.
