A Florida man is facing felony charges after authorities say he allegedly harassed and threatened an internet model over an online transaction.
According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, 41-year-old Rickey Collins was arrested early Sunday morning, May 17, after investigators said the situation escalated from unwanted messages to alleged firearm threats directed at the woman.
Investigators say the conflict began after Collins purchased intimate photos from what they describe as an ‘Internet model’ and allegedly used a ring as payment during the exchange. Authorities said the issue spiraled days later, when Collins reportedly contacted the woman and demanded that the ring be returned. The victim allegedly attempted to avoid any direct contact by offering to leave the jewelry at a designated location for pickup, but deputies say Collins insisted she return it to him in person.
According to the sheriff’s office, the woman repeatedly refused to meet face-to-face, which allegedly intensified the situation. Detectives said Collins then sent the victim a photo of himself holding a firearm alongside messages claiming he would arrive at her home within minutes.
The alleged threats prompted the woman to contact law enforcement out of fear for her safety.
Deputies later tracked Collins down at a bar in Winter Haven and took him into custody without incident. The sheriff’s office said he was charged with aggravated stalking and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, both third-degree felonies under Florida law.
Authorities also confirmed that Collins had an active warrant out of St. Lucie County at the time of his arrest, though it was unclear what the warrant was for.
Online subscription platforms have increasingly blurred the line between digital transactions and real-world interactions, leading to growing concerns around creator safety and harassment.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has framed the incident as a broader issue involving intimidation and digital harassment crossing into alleged real-world threats. Florida has seen a growing number of criminal cases tied to online interactions escalating offline, particularly when threats or weapons are involved.
