The Hidden Third Father vs. Child Predators | The Hidden Third with Mariana van Zeller
Dec 10, 2025
Todd Thomas, a former cannabis grower and founder of the Fathership Program, shares his harrowing journey as a father whose daughter was groomed by an online predator. He discusses the shocking moment he discovered her messages and the predator's tactics, including using a burner phone. Todd dives deep into his own experiences of childhood abuse, highlighting the importance of speaking out. Now, he empowers fathers through programs focused on parenting and anger management, aiming to change lives by turning personal pain into purpose.
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Father Finds His Daughter Groomed Online
- Todd Thomas discovered his 12-year-old daughter was being groomed after finding a burner phone labeled “sugar daddy.”
- He confronted the predator at a park with friends, called police, and later exposed the case publicly.
Sting At The Park Using A Decoy Message
- Todd pretended to be his daughter in messages to lure the predator back to the park for a citizen confrontation.
- They held him until police arrived and seized his phone, watch and car as evidence.
Support Systems Often Overlook Fathers
- Todd found victim services ignored his needs as a father and left him unsupported in the waiting room.
- He realized men's help resources must exist because men rarely ask for help and need different outreach.