ASHEBORO NC – Two men have been arrested for possessing and distributing child pornography following an investigation by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.
In a press release the Sheriff’s Office says their Criminal Investigation Division Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) received information that an individual by the name of James Ben Card was possessing/distributing child pornography on social media. Detectives began investigating and were able to obtain a search warrant which they executed on August 19, 2021, at the residence. Police say as that search warrant led to them discovering that Gary Robert Leach, Jr., another resident at the same address was also involved.
On September 3rd, 2021, detectives were able to use the evidence they obtained from the search warrant at the home to take out warrants for arrest for both subjects. Police say when they arrived to arrest both subjects, Card fled on foot, but they were able to arrest Leach. Card was located and arrested later on the same day. Both suspects were transported to the Randolph County Jail where they were officially charged with multiple felony counts of Second Degree Exploitation of a Minor. They are both scheduled to appear in court on September 7th 2021. The Sheriff’s office says the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be forthcoming.
James Ben Card
- Five counts of Felony Second Degree Exploitation of a Minor
- Misdemeanor Resisting a Public Officer
$75,000 secured bond
Gary Robert Leach
- Six counts of Felony Second Degree Exploitation of a Minor
$75,000 secured bond
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