Rescue of 13-Year-Old Girl from Assault

Federal authorities have reported the rescue of a 13-year-old girl who was allegedly subjected to sexual and physical assault by a man who groomed her online. The man, identified as Matthew Edward Peisher, 18, from Bangor, Pennsylvania, traveled to a motel in California after luring her through online interactions.

Peisher arrived in Los Angeles on February 20, where he met the girl and subsequently took her to a motel in Castaic. Investigators discovered a disturbing collection of items in the motel room, including condoms, knives, lubricant, razor blades, bloody tissues, and boarding passes.

According to prosecutors, Peisher had been grooming the girl for several months, having initially connected with her in a Discord chat room designed for individuals struggling with mental health issues. The girl’s mother reached out to the FBI on February 10, worried that her daughter was being manipulated by someone named Matthew.

Tragically, the family found a suicide note linked to the girl, which prompted a deeper investigation. Upon locating Peisher at the motel, authorities found the teenager hiding in the bathroom. She reportedly told them that Peisher had used a knife to harm her and forced her into sexual acts.

Further examination of the motel room revealed a Faraday bag—used to block electronic communications—alongside the girl’s phone. The girl mentioned that Peisher had threatened to commit suicide with her by jumping from the motel roof.

Prior to his arrival, Peisher had allegedly coerced the girl into sending explicit materials and had instructed her on self-harm through messages. The allegations against him include sending her explicit texts that discussed harming oneself.

Peisher now faces charges for traveling with the intent of engaging in unlawful sexual activities. If found guilty, he could face up to 30 years in prison.

Authorities indicated that Peisher is connected to a larger “nihilistic violent extremist” group that aims to exploit and manipulate vulnerable young people into acts of self-harm. The organization, referred to as the NVE group known as 764, has been linked to coercing its victims into violence or suicide.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Esseri has emphasized the importance of parental vigilance in today’s digital age. He cautions that access to the Internet can expose children to dangerous predators. “If your child uses the Internet, it’s crucial to be aware that a potential predator might be reaching out to them,” he remarked. “Law enforcement is committed to investigating and taking down those who threaten children. We strongly advise parents to monitor their children’s online activities.”