Story perspectives

First Conviction Under Take It Down Act Announced

4/9/2026

Summary

Leavitt Reports Conviction

The first conviction under the Take It Down Act was announced by Karoline Leavitt, the press secretary for U.S. President Donald Trump.
James Strahler II, 37, of Ohio, pleaded guilty to cyberstalking and producing obscene visuals involving adults and minors.
The Take It Down Act requires removal within 48 hours of notification, including content generated by artificial intelligence.
U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II affirmed the commitment to prosecuting offenders.

History

Historical Context

The Take It Down Act, enacted in 2022, addresses online exploitation by requiring the removal of harmful content within 48 hours. This legislation arose amid a 300% increase in cyberstalking cases reported by the FBI from 2015 to 2020. The law's enforcement, highlighted by the conviction of James Strahler II, underscores a growing commitment to safeguarding minors from digital threats.

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Leavitt Reports Conviction

The first conviction under the Take It Down Act was announced by Karoline Leavitt, the press secretary for U.S. President Donald Trump.
James Strahler II, 37, of Ohio, pleaded guilty to cyberstalking and producing obscene visuals involving adults and minors.
The Take It Down Act requires removal within 48 hours of notification, including content generated by artificial intelligence.
U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II affirmed the commitment to prosecuting offenders.

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