WAYNE, N.J. — A 27-year-old man from Passaic County, New Jersey, is facing charges of first-degree kidnapping and third-degree child endangerment after allegedly using the popular online gaming platform Roblox to lure and transport an 11-year-old girl across state lines. The incident, which unfolded on September 10, 2023, has raised concerns about child safety on digital platforms.
Darius Matylewich is accused of meeting the minor on Roblox and subsequently abducting her from her home in Wayne, New Jersey, without her parents’ knowledge or consent. The Wayne Police Department located the girl shortly after she was reported missing and found her in Bear, Delaware, approximately 12 miles southwest of the state capital, Wilmington.
Matylewich was arrested in New Castle County, Delaware, on the same day and has since been extradited to New Jersey to face charges. The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office is seeking additional information on this case or any similar incidents involving Matylewich.
Roblox, the online gaming platform where Matylewich allegedly communicated with the girl, has denied that the two met on their platform based on their internal investigation. A spokesperson for the company emphasized their commitment to user safety, particularly for their youngest users, and their ongoing efforts to prevent grooming on their platform.
If convicted, Matylewich could face 10 to 30 years in prison for the kidnapping charge, with a requirement to serve 85% of his term before being eligible for parole. The endangering charge carries a potential sentence of three to five years.
This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with online gaming platforms and the need for increased vigilance in protecting children from online predators. Authorities are urging parents to closely monitor their children’s online activities and educate them about the risks of interacting with strangers online.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office is urging anyone with information about this case or any similar incidents involving Matylewich to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of all children in the community.