Handcuffs

By Cecilia Levine From Daily Voice

A 21-year-old New Jersey man has been arrested on federal cyberstalking charges tied to a violent extremist network known as “764,” authorities said Friday, Nov. 14.

Marek Cherkaoui, of Egg Harbor Township, has a lengthy history of making online comments involving threats and advocating for and supporting violence, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba said.

From December 2024 through May 2025, Cherkaoui used the internet to threaten a minor female and told her to cut herself, Habba's office said. On two occasions, the girl cut her arms after being threatened by Cherkaoui, according to documents filed in the case.

A criminal complaint filed in federal court states that Cherkaoui acted with the intent to kill, injure, harass, and intimidate another person, using mail, electronic communication services, and other interstate facilities to cause substantial emotional distress to a minor victim.

Federal investigators said Cherkaoui posted messages promoting the ideology of the extremist network “764,” expressed support for mass shooters, and “solicited child sex abuse materials from minors.” Agents also noted that he encouraged others “to harm themselves and others.”

According to the complaint, Cherkaoui purchased books on “the manufacture of explosives,” body armor, zip ties, a trench coat, and tactical gear. Many of these items were seized during searches at his home in June 2025.

During another search conducted Friday, FBI agents found writings in which Cherkaoui “discussed and planned murder and terroristic acts,” including a “multi-step plan” involving joining ISIS and returning to the United States to commit violent attacks.

The charge of cyberstalking a minor carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.

Habba credited special agents of the FBI, the Joint Terrorism Task Force, and the New Jersey State Police for their work on the investigation.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.