FARGO (AP) - A man accused of threatening girls into engaging in sexually explicit conduct has pleaded guilty to eight counts in the first federal case of sextortion tried in North Dakota.
Twenty-two-year-old Dustin Coleman, of Wahpeton, is charged with sexual exploitation of minors, possessing child pornography and extortion. A joint sentencing recommendation calls for him to serve 30 years in prison.
Authorities say Coleman used intimidation or fear to gain sexual favors and coerce victims into making and sending him explicit images. He allegedly told one victim that he would rape her younger sister if she didn't send him nude photographs of herself.
Coleman said Wednesday that he suffers from numerous mental health disorders and has been taking at least five medications for the last six months.
Sentencing is scheduled Jan. 26.