Trysten Anthony Cullon, 26, from South Carolina, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit cyberstalking in a case that led to the death of a victim. This development was announced by Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Previously, Jade Ashlynn Stone, 25, also from South Carolina, entered a guilty plea on April 10, 2025.
James C. Barnacle Jr., Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Charlotte Division, joined U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.
Court documents reveal that between September 5 and September 8, 2024, Cullon and Stone conspired to cyberstalk a victim referred to as C.T., who had an intellectual disability classified as Educable Mentally Disabled. C.T., who worked at a fast-food restaurant chain in Charlotte and lived with family support due to his condition, was targeted by the defendants using a stolen phone.
Cullon and Stone admitted in court to sending multiple harassing text messages to C.T.’s family members. These messages demanded money and threatened to share derogatory information with C.T.’s employer unless they were paid. The claims included accusations that C.T. was involved in inappropriate behavior. The emotional distress caused by these threats resulted in C.T.’s suicide.
Both Cullon and Stone have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit cyberstalking, which carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment. They remain in custody awaiting sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Ferguson expressed gratitude towards the FBI for their investigation and acknowledged the substantial assistance provided by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte.
