FBI, DOJ Arrest Suspect

, coercion, and manipulation. The indictment outlines a broad scheme that investigators say relied on digital communications and online communities to identify and exploit vulnerable victims. Federal authorities allege Sweeney used threats and psychological pressure to maintain influence over those he targeted. According to court filings and investigative documents, the case also includes allegations that some victims were subjected to in-person encounters that were recorded. Federal investigators say the investigation uncovered alleged ties to nihilistic violent extremist (NVE) networks, including online communities associated with a collective known as “764.”