A Pinehurst man faces ten felony charges following a months-long investigation involving child sexual abuse material, according to the Pinehurst Police Department.
Police identified the defendant as 63-year-old Joseph Byrne. He has been charged with eight counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
Investigation began with cyber tip
Detectives reportedly received a cyber tip in May concerning someone in the community suspected of possessing or distributing child sexual abuse material.
Investigators seized electronic devices and other materials from a residence. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation assisted with the forensic analysis.
On Thursday, Pinehurst detectives and SBI agents executed an additional search warrant on Lake Forest Drive Southwest and served arrest warrants on Byrne.
Case remains active
Police said the investigation is continuing and additional charges are possible. Officials had not released further information about the evidence or alleged victims.
The charges are allegations. Byrne is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Source: Sandhills Sentinel.
