Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Tim Soignet announced the arrest of an 18-year-old Gray man following an investigation into allegations of dating violence, extortion, and the nonconsensual distribution of private images.
Jonah Michael Dupre, 18, of Gray, was arrested on charges of Battery of a Dating Partner, Improper Telephone Communications, Nonconsensual Disclosure of a Private Image, and Extortion.
According to authorities, deputies responded on March 2, 2026, after a third party reported that explicit photographs of the victim had been shared on a social media application. Investigators learned the victim and Dupre had recently ended a brief romantic relationship.
Deputies were advised that the complainant observed the images posted online and notified the victim. Authorities later confirmed the images were allegedly distributed by Dupre without the victim’s consent.
During the investigation, the victim reported that Dupre had previously been physically aggressive during a public incident that had not been reported at the time due to fear. Detectives also uncovered evidence indicating Dupre allegedly used the explicit images in an attempt to extort the victim for continued sexual relations. When the victim refused, the images were allegedly posted online.
With assistance from the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Dupre was located and transported for questioning. During the interview, authorities say Dupre admitted to posting the images but denied intending to harm the victim.
Dupre was subsequently arrested and booked into the Terrebonne Parish Criminal Justice Complex, where he remains jailed on a $30,000 bond set by a local judge.
The investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are expected to pursue additional investigative measures, including search warrants, to determine whether further evidence exists.
Sheriff Soignet emphasized the seriousness of crimes involving digital exploitation.
“Cases involving the misuse of social media and the exploitation of private images have become increasingly common,” said Soignet. “The alleged actions in this case are deeply troubling and can have lasting emotional consequences. Our agency will continue to take these cases seriously and ensure accountability.”
Due to the sensitive nature of the case, the victim’s identity is being withheld. Authorities ask that the privacy of those affected be respected.
All persons arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
