NJ Man Detained on Federal Cyberstalking Charge Tied to Violent Online Network ‘764’

Federal prosecutors allege the 21‑year‑old targeted a minor and supported a nihilistic extremist network as investigators seized weapons‑related materials and violent writings.

A 21-year-old Egg Harbor Township resident has been arrested and detained on federal cyberstalking charges connected to an online extremist network known as “764,” according to an announcement from Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba. The defendant, Marek Cherkaoui, made an initial appearance in federal court in the District of New Jersey on Tuesday and was ordered held pending further proceedings.

According to court statements and documents filed in the case, federal authorities allege Cherkaoui used the internet between December 2024 and May 2025 to threaten a minor female. Prosecutors say he instructed the girl to cut herself; she reportedly harmed her arms on two occasions following these communications. Officials also stated that Cherkaoui has a documented history of online comments expressing approval of violence and aligning with ideology associated with the nihilistic violent extremist network known as 764.

Investigators allege that Cherkaoui expressed support for mass shooters, solicited child sexual abuse material from minors, and encouraged both self-harm and violence against others. Authorities also reported that Cherkaoui previously acquired books on constructing explosives, as well as body armor, zip ties, a trench coat, ski masks, and tactical gear. Many of these materials were recovered during a June 2025 search of his residence.

During a subsequent search on the day of his arrest, FBI agents located writings in which Cherkaoui allegedly discussed and planned murder and terroristic acts. Prosecutors say the writings outlined a multi-step plan involving joining ISIS and returning to the United States to commit acts of terrorism.

The charge of cyberstalking a minor carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing, if a conviction is secured, would be determined by a federal judge in accordance with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and federal statutes.

Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Habba credited the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, led by Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, and the New Jersey State Police for their roles in the investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are jointly prosecuting the case.

The Justice Department noted that networks such as 764 often target vulnerable individuals, including minors, by disseminating child sexual abuse material and violent content while coercing victims into acts of self-harm, sexual exploitation, and violence. The department emphasized ongoing efforts to combat these threats and encouraged families and educators to review federal resources on online safety, including the FBI’s March 2025 public service announcement.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.