Marek Cherkaoui, a 21-year-old resident of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, was arrested on charges of cyberstalking in connection with the network known as 764. He appeared in federal court in the District of New Jersey and has been ordered detained.
Court documents allege that from December 2024 to May 2025, Cherkaoui used online platforms to threaten a minor female and encouraged her to harm herself. The complaint states that on two occasions, the minor cut her arms after receiving threats from Cherkaoui.
Authorities also allege that Cherkaoui made online statements supporting violent ideologies associated with the Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) network called 764. According to investigators, he expressed support for mass shooters, solicited child sexual abuse materials from minors, and encouraged others to inflict harm on themselves or others. Law enforcement reports indicate that Cherkaoui previously purchased books about making explosives as well as items such as body armor, zip ties, a trench coat, ski masks, and tactical gear. Many of these were seized during a search of his home in June 2025.
During a search conducted today at his residence by FBI agents, authorities found writings in which Cherkaoui allegedly discussed plans for murder and terroristic acts. The documents included what is described as a multi-step plan involving joining ISIS and returning to the United States to commit terrorist acts.
The charge of cyberstalking a minor carries a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release if convicted. Sentencing would be determined by a federal district court judge based on statutory factors and U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The investigation is being led by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force with assistance from the New Jersey State Police. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey along with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
“The Justice Department remains vigilant against the threat of Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) networks, like 764, that operate within the United States and around the globe. NVEs often target vulnerable individuals, including minors, using social media platforms to share child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and gore material, and groom victims toward committing acts of violence. Victims are often extorted, coerced, compelled, and blackmailed into complying with NVE demands, including self-mutilation, online and in-person sexual acts, harm to animals, sexual exploitation of siblings and others, acts of violence, threats of violence, suicide, and murder,” according to information provided by federal officials.
A criminal complaint is an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
For more information about protecting children from online risks related to these types of networks or activities: Parents can access resources through this FBI resource page or read about public service announcements released by law enforcement agencies earlier this year.
