ASHEBORO, N.C. — Two men have been arrested on felony charges related to child sexual abuse material, according to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.
James Ben Card and Gary Robert Leach Jr., who lived at the same address, were arrested Sept. 3, 2021, following an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division Internet Crimes Against Children unit.
Detectives received information that Card was possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material on social media. An investigation led to a search warrant executed Aug. 19, 2021, at their residence.
During the search, investigators discovered that Leach was also involved in the activity.
On Sept. 3, detectives obtained arrest warrants for both men. When officers arrived to arrest them, Card fled on foot but was located and arrested later that day. Leach was arrested at the scene.
Both were transported to the Randolph County Jail.
Card was charged with five counts of felony second-degree exploitation of a minor and misdemeanor resisting a public officer. He is being held on a $75,000 secured bond.
Leach was charged with six counts of felony second-degree exploitation of a minor and is being held on a $75,000 secured bond.
Both were scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 7, 2021. The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.
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