Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson recently urged parents across the state to take a more active role in their children's online lives, warning that digital dangers can affect any family. Wilson's remarks, made during a Monday appearance on The Big Picture with Bryn Caswell and Stacia Naquin, come as a federal case continues against a Columbus man accused in the kidnapping and death of 17-year-old Indiana teen Hailey Buzbee.
Wilson emphasized that the experience of Buzbee’s family should serve as a stark reminder that parents cannot assume their children are safe online, even if they are attentive or familiar with technology. The Attorney General stated that Hailey’s parents are typical, like any other, and if such a tragedy could befall their family, it could happen to others. He also noted that his own professional experience does not make his family immune to potential online threats, stressing that no one should believe they are beyond reach.
Buzbee disappeared from her home in Fishers, Indiana, with her remains later discovered in Perry County in February. Federal prosecutors allege she initially met Tyler Thomas, 39, of Columbus, Ohio, online while playing video games, specifically naming Roblox and League of Legends.
On September 23, a federal grand jury indicted Thomas on nine counts connected to Buzbee’s death. These charges include kidnapping resulting in death, sexual exploitation of a child resulting in death, traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, and obstruction-related offenses. Thomas was arraigned in federal court on Monday and entered a plea of not guilty to all counts. The allegations against him have not yet been proven in court.
In his call for increased vigilance, Wilson encouraged parents to learn which applications their children use on their devices. He also advised researching potential safety concerns associated with those platforms, including any known weaknesses or problems. Crucially, Wilson stressed the importance of maintaining open conversations with children about their online interactions. These discussions, he advised, should be rooted in a genuine concern for children’s safety, rather than an attempt to exert control. “It’s really all about your desire to keep them safe,” Wilson said.
Buzbee’s parents, despite the immense emotional toll, are actively using their experience to encourage other families to prioritize online safety. Wilson described their efforts as being driven by “a sense of purpose where they want to take action,” sharing their story even though it is painful to recount repeatedly. The family's aim, according to Wilson, is to prevent any other parent from having to endure a similar loss.
The federal case against Thomas has also spurred action among Ohio lawmakers, who are currently considering proposals aimed at protecting children from online exploitation and related dangers. One such legislative effort is Senate Bill 379, widely known as “Hailey’s Law.” This proposal was introduced in March by state Senators Michele Reynolds and Kristina Roegner, forming part of the broader legislative response following Buzbee’s death.
The ongoing investigation and the legislative considerations underscore significant concerns about how online gaming platforms and other digital services can connect young people with individuals they do not know in person. Wilson’s overarching message underscored the critical role parents play by understanding the digital platforms their children frequent, discussing potentially dangerous interactions, and ensuring children feel comfortable reaching out for help. He reiterated that neither education, experience, nor familiarity with technology makes families immune to online threats, urging instead for continuous engagement in children’s digital lives and approaching sensitive conversations with care and a focus on protection. The federal criminal case against Thomas is ongoing.