Social Media Stars Arrested for Extortion in Animal Abuse Vigilantism Case

Social media personalities Michel Tronny and Denis Cherkov were arrested on Thursday on suspicion of extortion by threats, stemming from their activities against individuals they accused of animal abuse. Police in Bnei Brak launched an investigation after receiving multiple complaints, including from a minor, regarding online threats and demands for money. One central case under scrutiny involves Tronny and Cherkov demanding 20,000 shekels from a young man filmed abusing a cat, and his family.

The pair were arrested separately, questioned, and later released the same day. The incident began about a week prior when a disturbing video circulated online showing a 20-year-old man from the Emek HaMayanot region repeatedly slamming a cat against the ground, while friends encouraged him. This footage sparked public outrage and led to a police investigation, during which the young man was located and arrested for animal cruelty. His arrest was extended on October 23, with reports later suggesting possible release to house arrest.

Concurrently, a protest occurred near a pizzeria in Menachemya, associated with the young man and his father, where demonstrators called for harsher penalties for animal abuse. The young man's lawyer stated he has no criminal record and faces complex life circumstances, denying criminal responsibility for the event. No confirmed update on the proceedings against him has been released.

The case took a turn with the involvement of Tronny and Cherkov, who recently announced the formation of a private group called "Animal Police." They began publishing footage of suspected animal abusers, revealing personal details and demanding fines. In one video, Cherkov is heard demanding 20,000 shekels from the young man's family, to be transferred to a charity of their choice. Tronny also threatened public displays and protests.

However, "Animal Police" is not an official law enforcement body and lacks legal authority to impose fines. Authorities are now examining whether the payment demands and threats constitute criminal offenses. This is not the first time the social media stars have been linked to legal proceedings; in 2021, an investigation into their marketing company "Amuza" was opened but later closed in December 2022, with the conduct deemed not criminal. Later that year, a restraining order was issued against them following a request by reporter Daniel Elazar, who claimed harassment and threats. In another instance, Tronny was convicted of threats in November 2024, though the conviction was later overturned during sentencing.

Responding to their arrest, Tronny and Cherkov claimed they appeared voluntarily for questioning, fully cooperated, and asserted their actions were lawful. They suggested that external parties with ulterior motives are behind the complaints to harm their activities. "Our activity is legal, our goal is worthy, and no one will stop us," the pair stated, vowing to continue their fight against animal abuse. Meanwhile, the police continue their investigation, raising broader questions about the line between public advocacy for animals and private individuals taking on enforcement powers.