Coral Springs man arrested for extortion after threatening to post ex-wife’s private photos online in disturbing case of digital harassment
Coral Springs, Florida – A disturbing case of digital harassment and betrayal has surfaced in Coral Springs, where police say a local man attempted to extort his ex-wife by threatening to expose explicit images of her online. The man, 36-year-old Daniel Aldridge, was arrested this past weekend following an extensive investigation by the Coral Springs Police Department that spanned several months.
According to authorities, the ordeal began in late June 2024 when the victim, Aldridge’s ex-wife, came forward with a troubling complaint. She had started receiving a string of threatening text messages from unknown numbers. The messages contained explicit photos that had been taken privately during their past relationship. More alarmingly, the sender demanded that the woman send new nude photos or risk having even more of her private information made public.
“The content of the messages and the demands were not only threatening but humiliating,” one detective familiar with the case said. “It was a clear attempt to manipulate and control the victim using her own private images as a weapon.”
Investigators worked diligently to identify the person behind the anonymous messages. Their breakthrough came when they traced the source back to a work-issued phone belonging to Aldridge. Despite his initial denial of any involvement, Aldridge later confessed to having contacted the woman in August 2024.
His explanation, however, only deepened the discomfort surrounding the case. Aldridge allegedly told detectives that he believed he was participating in what he described as his ex-wife’s “kink” of wanting public exposure. Police records state that the victim denied any such interest and described Aldridge’s claim as completely false.
The situation escalated when Aldridge went so far as to upload the explicit photos to a pornographic website. In addition to the messages sent to the victim, he reportedly also issued threats to her current husband, adding another layer of intimidation and emotional distress to an already harrowing situation.
Verizon phone records subpoenaed by investigators played a critical role in confirming Aldridge’s involvement. Contrary to his claims that he had been locked out of his work device, the records showed that the phone had been actively used during the period in question. These findings, combined with the digital evidence and testimony, led to Aldridge being formally charged with extortion.
This case is a clear example of how technology can be misused to harm others,” said a Coral Springs Police spokesperson. “But it also shows how determined investigative work and cooperation with tech providers can help bring justice.”
Aldridge is now facing serious legal consequences. As of now, no court date has been set, and it remains unclear whether he has obtained legal representation. Meanwhile, the victim is reportedly receiving support and counseling as she attempts to recover from the trauma of the ordeal.
The case underscores the growing need for awareness about digital abuse and the legal protections available to victims of such crimes. Police urge anyone facing similar threats to come forward and seek help.
