GRANITE FALLS, NC — A Burke County man is facing charges after investigators say he was soliciting photos and carrying on a sexual relationship with a juvenile.
James Gardner, 28, was arrested at his Berkley Avenue home on August 31st in connection to the possible sexual exploitation of a minor.
Authorities were contacted on August 28th after deputies say the reporting party found a cellphone containing evidence of an ongoing relationship between Gardner and the victim. Investigators say Gardner gave the cellphone to the juvenile “for the express purpose of maintaining communication within their relationship.”
The cellphone reportedly contained evidence of an ongoing sexual relationship, as well as images solicited from the juvenile.
Gardner is charged with Statutory Sex Offense with a Child under 15. He has received a $150,000 bond.
