Couple sentenced to federal prison for cyberstalking, extorting disabled man, driving him to suicide

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (TCN) -- A couple has been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit cyberstalking.

In September 2024, Trysten Cullon and Jade Stone, both 27, began cyberstalking Christopher Tsoulos, a 37-year-old with an intellectual disability who worked as a greeter at Chick-fil-A, WBTV reports.

The incidents occurred between Sept. 5 and Sept. 7, 2025. Cullon and Stone reportedly wanted money for drugs and gained access to Tsoulos’ unlocked cellphone. They tried to transfer money to themselves from his financial apps, and when that failed, they began sending harassing text messages, threatening to extort him to his employer and demanding money, according to WBTV. 

The Charlotte Observer reports they texted Tsoulos’ mother and brother. One of the texts read, “How dare he work at a Christian establishment while he is going to brothels and asking hundreds of women online to have sex. Unless you want me to ruin him and embarrass you I suggest you provide some compensation. He will lose everything. The things I saw were disgusting and disturbing.”

Other texts sent to relatives said, “Your son is a pervert and I’m going to let his job and everyone else in his family know that,” and “Unless you want me to ruin him and embarrass you I suggest you provide some compensation,” Law & Crime reports.

According to the Charlotte Observer, after three days of being overwhelmed by Cullon and Stone’s threats, Tsoulos fatally shot himself on the front porch outside his home. His body was discovered by his father, whom he lived with. Tsoulos had reportedly never touched a gun before, the outlet reports.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced the sentencing on March 12. Cullon was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison and Stone to 27 months, with three years of supervised release following their release from prison. In addition, they have been ordered to pay $26,699.65 in restitution. According to the Charlotte Observer, Stone’s sentence was shorter due to her clean record; Cullon had reportedly been involved in an armed robbery in the past.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Reid Davis said of the sentencing, “This couple intentionally tormented a young man with intellectual disabilities for personal enrichment. While Christopher’s life is priceless and his family is forever changed, we hope a federal prison sentence will bring some form of justice and comfort for his loved ones,” Law & Crime reports.

Tsoulos’ obituary read, “Chris leaves behind a vibrant tapestry of memories, made up of laughter, love, and unforgettable moments that linger in the hearts of those he touched. His spirit of giving and his zest for life will be remembered fondly, as he exemplified what it meant to live fully and kindly.”

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