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New York City, NY – Alden Rice, a Bronx man who called himself "Father Alden," was apprehended Thursday afternoon on suspicion of leading a blood cult that preyed on vulnerable individuals. Police say Rice, 36, used online forums focused on the occult to convince others he was a vampire, promising immortality and supernatural cures in exchange for their devotion—and their money.
Rice, who has a documented history of psychotic episodes, became a prominent figure in niche online communities where he claimed to possess supernatural powers and lived a nocturnal lifestyle. His bold claims reportedly drew dozens of followers, some of whom handed over their life savings in hopes of curing diseases or achieving eternal life.
“This is where delusion turned into outright fraud,” said Detective Samuel Vega of the NYPD. “He wasn’t just claiming to be a vampire—he was profiting off of it.”
Investigators say Rice began soliciting "donations" from his followers, using his supposed supernatural status to manipulate them. The cult’s activities came to light after one follower filed a police report, alleging financial exploitation and disturbing rituals. Officers located Rice at a safehouse in the Bronx, where he was taken into custody without incident.
Police described Rice as “painfully ordinary” despite his claims of supernatural abilities. “He didn’t burst into flames when he stepped outside during the day,” Vega quipped, “but he did make several outlandish demands about his ‘special dietary needs.’”
The NYPD has pointed to the role of online forums and groups that spread occult misinformation, arguing that they create fertile ground for individuals like Rice to exploit others. “These platforms prey on the vulnerable, and in this case, they enabled a man with severe delusions to become a criminal,” said Vega.
Authorities are working to identify and assist Rice’s followers, many of whom may have suffered financial or emotional harm. As the investigation unfolds, officials are urging the public to remain cautious of individuals or groups making supernatural claims.
Rice is currently facing charges of fraud, financial exploitation, and other related offenses. His court date has not yet been set.