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Former American River College Student Accused Of Extortion In Alleged Revenge Porn Plot

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — A former American River College student is behind bars, facing felony charges including extortion and distribution of child pornography.

Christian Hirtzel, 21, was a student at the college from 2012 to 2014.

One of his former female coworkers described him as charming and extremely charismatic. She also says she knows some of the accusers in the case.

"I hope that they can move on and they can get peace. And I hope that this doesn't happen again. Hopefully at this school or anywhere else," she said.

Hirtzel was arrested on Jan. 22 by the Los Rios Police Department. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and they can't release any details. However, they say say it's been a lengthy investigation because of the number of interviews to do and warrants they had to get for Hirtzel's home.

The 21-year-old faces six counts of computer crime, two counts of distribution of child pornography, communicating with a minor with the intent to commit a sexual offense and four counts each of extortion and attempted extortion.

The school released a statement, saying it "commends those students who courageously came forward to assist in this investigation. As always, we encourage the campus community: if you see something, say something."

Hirtzel is being held on $100,000 bail, and he'll be in court on April 12.

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