Georgetown man charged with extortion, police believe there could be more victims

Halton police have made an arrest in an online extortion investigation but detectives believe there could be other victims.

The investigation began in August 2020, when a victim reported being contacted online about sending a nude image in exchange for money. The victim was told the image would be viewed for a few seconds and then deleted.

After getting the image, police say the suspect saved it and threatened to distribute it unless they were paid. The victim did not give over any money.

On June 12, police arrested 19-year-old Benjamin Haden of Georgetown. Officers executed a search warrant at him home and seized a number of electronic devices.

Haden has been charged with two counts of extortion.

Police believe there could be additional victims. They say Haden used the following online identities:

• Ben_Haden0821
• Zander_Laudry20
• Nick_Smith
• James_Hamilton
• S_man8080

They are asking anyone who had contact with him to call Det. Paul Harrower at 905-825-4747 ext. 2219.