Alleged internet hacker back in court

Ronald Oates, the man believed to be a major player behind a computer hacking ring, is to return to the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court today.

He remains in police custody after being denied bail.

Oates is charged with offences under the Cyber Crimes Act and the Larceny Act.

He is accused of extorting money from hundreds of persons, who wanted to avoid having explicit photos of them posted to the internet.

Following months of investigation, Oates was arrested at his St. Andrew home on August 27 during a raid by the police.

The police say during the operation they recovered several computers, cell phones, wireless modems, thumb drives and telephone SIM cards.

Police investigators say hundreds of persons have been affected by the scam.

radio@gleanerjm.com