**Interview with Authorities on the Capture of Alexander McCartney**

In 2019, a phone call from a 13-year-old girl in Scotland turned the tide in the pursuit of Alexander McCartney, a social media predator labeled one of the world’s most prolific child sex abusers. Can you tell us about how this investigation unfolded?

The call from the girl prompted an urgent investigation by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), beginning in March 2019. Upon receiving the information, detectives swiftly identified McCartney’s residence and proceeded to arrest him. During the investigation, 64 of his devices were seized, revealing hundreds of thousands of indecent images and videos of underage girls who were coerced into performing sexual acts.

What was unique about McCartney’s methods?

Detective Chief Superintendent Eamonn Corrigan described McCartney’s approach as “offending on an industrial scale.” He created numerous fake accounts on platforms like Snapchat, posing as a teenage girl to gain the trust of young victims. Once he established a rapport, he encouraged them to share indecent images or participate in sexual activities via webcam or mobile phone. He employed threats, asserting he would share the images online, leaving his victims terrified and vulnerable.

What has come to light about the extent of his crimes?

As the investigation progressed, it became evident that McCartney’s crimes were not limited to the UK but extended globally. The PSNI collaborated with international agencies, leading to the identification of victims across countries like the United States, New Zealand, and at least 28 others. Many children were only discovered due to the evidence found on McCartney’s devices.

Catherine Kierans, acting head of the Public Prosecution Service’s serious crime unit, remarked on the scale of the abuse, mentioning that little girls, aged around 10-12, were subjected to heinous threats. What was discovered about the victims?

Some children had bravely come forward, allowing police to pinpoint McCartney initially. However, many remained silent until law enforcement intervened. Ms. Kierans noted that McCartney operated relentlessly, exploiting the trust of vulnerable youngsters around the clock. Tragically, his abuse contributed to the suicide of a 12-year-old girl in West Virginia, Cimarron Thomas, leading to additional charges of manslaughter.

What significant legal implications stemmed from this case?

This situation marks a notable precedent, with McCartney becoming the first abuser held accountable for manslaughter in a case where victim and perpetrator had never met in person. As prosecutors sifted through an overwhelming number of charges, ultimately around 200 charges relating to approximately 70 victims were filed.

In your view, who is Alexander McCartney beyond his crimes?

McCartney was described as an introverted individual with no extraordinary traits, growing up in a rural area near Newry. He attended local schools and was known for being socially awkward. Residents expressed their shock at the revelations, with many recalling him as a seemingly pleasant and intelligent young man. However, this façade masked the horrific reality of his actions that victimized so many.

Catherine Kierans emphasized the devastating impact of McCartney’s crimes on thousands of children, many of whom may still be unidentified. She noted the stark contrast between the courage of the victims and McCartney’s cowardice in preying on the vulnerable.

For those affected by this harrowing story, support resources are available through the BBC Action Line.