A suspended Charleston County magistrate judge is facing multiple federal charges related to child sexual abuse material, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina.
James B. Gosnell Jr., 68, was arrested on Sept. 16 and charged with six counts, including possession, receipt, distribution and conspiracy to receive and distribute child sexual abuse material. Prosecutors allege he engaged in transactions with an overseas distributor and that federal agents recovered hundreds of explicit videos and images from a flash drive seized at his home. The material allegedly depicted prepubescent minors, including infants and toddlers.
Investigation and Arrest
Officials said the investigation began after a tip was submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Federal authorities subsequently executed a search and gathered digital evidence that led to Gosnell’s indictment.
Court filings indicate that the indictment includes counts of attempted receipt as well as actual distribution of child sexual abuse material. Another defendant has been charged in connection with the case, though that individual’s identity has been sealed by the court.
Court Proceedings
At an October arraignment in federal court, Gosnell pleaded not guilty to all charges. A judge denied bond, and he has remained in custody since his arrest. He was suspended from the bench shortly after being charged and later resigned from his judicial position.
The United States Department of Justice said in a statement that the case underscores its commitment to combating child exploitation networks.
If convicted on all counts, Gosnell could face decades in federal prison. No trial date has been set, and upcoming hearings are expected to address pre-trial motions and evidentiary issues. Investigators have indicated they are continuing to examine whether there are additional victims or related activity tied to the case.
