Snapchat accounts hacked for sexual pictures and videos, 2 Pittsburgh-area men plead guilty

Two Pittsburgh-area men have pleaded guilty in a federal case involving hacked Snapchat accounts and stolen explicit images.

Federal prosecutors said Richard Martz Jr., of Meadville, and Dylan Miller, of West Mifflin, admitted their roles in a scheme investigator say targeted hundreds of Snapchat users between March 2020 and October 2022.

According to our CBS affiliate KDKA. seven defendants were charged in a 16-count federal indictment that included conspiracy to commit wire fraud, unlawful computer access, aggravated identity theft and charges related to child sexual abuse material.

The other defendants named in the indictment include Christopher Clampitt of North Carolina, Edward Grabb of Jeannette, Michael Yackovich of West Newton, Luke Swinehart of Lock Haven and Karlin Jones of Beaver Falls.

Prosecutors said the group allegedly hacked Snapchat accounts to gain access to sexually explicit photos and videos, including material involving minors.

According to investigators, the defendants copied and stored the content on personal devices and online storage accounts before sharing, trading and selling the material online without the victims’ knowledge.

The FBI said the images and videos were allegedly sold and exchanged for profit.

KDKA reported PNC Bank confirmed Miller was a former employee. The Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office also confirmed Grabb previously worked as a part-time deputy in a limited role.

PNC released a statement to KDKA saying it is aware of the legal proceedings involving the former employee and noted the company prioritizes customer information security.

Martz and Miller are both required to register as sex offenders. They remain free on bond pending sentencing hearings scheduled for Sept. 16.