Lonoke County, AR - A lawsuit filed this week in federal court accuses Roblox Corporation and Snap, Inc. of fostering digital environments that enable predators to sexually exploit minors. The complaint centers on a Lonoke County boy, now 14, and his mother, who allege that both companies failed to protect children using their platforms.
Allegations of Grooming Across Platforms
According to court filings, the victim, identified as John Doe, began using Roblox in 2022. Soon after joining, attorneys say an adult posing as a teenager befriended him through the platform and encouraged him to move their conversations to Snapchat. Once there, the predator allegedly persuaded Doe to create and share sexually explicit images of himself.
Lawyer Condemns Tech Giants’ Conduct
“This case against Roblox is a terrifying reminder of the world we live in where capitalist greed far outweighs humanity,” said attorney Matthew Dolman. “There have never been sufficient safety measures and protocols in place, putting our youngest and most vulnerable communities into unimaginable harm’s way every second of the day. Without forcing systemic change, Roblox will continue to operate anarchically.”
The lawsuit argues that both corporations prioritize profit over child safety and that they misrepresent the effectiveness of their safety features, leading parents and children to believe the platforms are secure when, in reality, predators can operate freely.
Internal Findings Raise Serious Concerns
An internal review tied to the complaint reportedly uncovered disturbing content within Roblox’s “experiences,” including hundreds of user-created games titled “Diddy Party,” “Survive Diddy,” “JeffEpsteinSupporter,” and “Escape to Epstein Island.” The lawsuit frames these as examples of how the company’s lax oversight allows inappropriate or exploitative material to thrive.
Legal Action Seeks Damages
The plaintiffs seek monetary damages from Roblox Corporation and Snap, Inc., arguing that both entities contributed to John Doe’s victimization through negligence and deceptive safety claims. The outcome of this case could mark a significant turning point for accountability in online child protection.
Legal Protections for Children Exploited Online and Holding Tech Platforms Accountable
As reports of child exploitation through online platforms continue to grow, Arkansas sexual abuse lawyer Joshua Gillespie joins us to discuss the legal options available to victims and their families. He addresses how tech corporations like Roblox and Snapchat may face liability when unsafe digital environments allow predators to target minors, and what parents can do to safeguard their children from similar harm.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: For families who discover their child has been exploited on platforms like Roblox or Snapchat, what legal steps are available to them?
Joshua Gillespie, Esq.: Parents can pursue civil claims against the platforms if there’s evidence that corporate negligence or misleading safety claims played a role in their child’s victimization. These lawsuits can seek damages for emotional trauma, therapy costs, and other losses. They also send a message to tech companies that ignoring these risks has real consequences.
Banville: Do these cases stand a chance against major corporations with deep legal resources?
Gillespie: They can, especially when multiple victims come forward or when internal documents reveal failures in content monitoring. Holding these companies accountable often requires persistence and collaboration between legal teams, advocacy groups, and affected families.
Banville: And what’s your advice for parents right now?
Gillespie: Stay involved in your child’s digital life. Review privacy settings, know their online friends, and have open conversations. The law can help after harm occurs, but prevention still starts at home.
Stand Up and Take Action Today
If your child has been targeted or exploited through platforms like Roblox or Snapchat, you are not alone. Our team stands ready to help families hold negligent corporations accountable and fight for the justice every child deserves. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward protecting your child’s future.
